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PAC → DAV
Which side of the plane to sit from Marcos A. Gelabert International Airport (Panama) to Enrique Malek International Airport (David)?
Right Side of the Plane
The right side offers a premier view of the Panama Canal's Pacific infrastructure immediately after takeoff, followed by the dramatic mountain spine of the country and the towering Volcán Barú upon arrival.
Miraflores & Pedro Miguel Locks
Immediately after departure from PAC, you get a bird's-eye view of the massive ships traversing the Panama Canal locks.
Centenario & Americas Bridges
The two iconic bridges spanning the canal are visible as the aircraft turns westward toward David.
El Valle de Antón
Look for the massive, flat-bottomed volcanic crater that houses a vibrant town, surrounded by jagged peaks.
Cordillera Central
The rugged, lush mountain range that divides the Isthmus provides a dramatic backdrop for the entire flight.
Volcán Barú
Panama's highest peak dominates the horizon on the right side during the final descent into Enrique Malek Airport.
The right side is the 'landmark side.' For the best experience, keep your camera ready within the first 5 minutes of takeoff for the Canal views. During the final 15 minutes, the approach to David often provides a stunning profile of Volcán Barú; if it's a clear day, you may even see the Caribbean Sea on the far side of the mountains.
Taboga Island
Visible shortly after takeoff from Albrook, this 'Island of Flowers' sits prominently in the Bay of Panama.
Playa Blanca & Farallón
The white sand coastline of the 'Arco Seco' region is clearly visible during the mid-flight cruise.
Gulf of Chiriquí Islands
As the plane descends into David, look for the scattered tropical islands and protected marine zones of the gulf.
Azuero Peninsula Coastline
View the northern curve of the peninsula where the land meets the deep blue of the Pacific Ocean.
Choose the left side for morning flights to avoid the direct northern sun glare. This side is excellent for capturing the contrast between the turquoise coastal shallows and the deep ocean. It is particularly scenic during the dry season (January–April) when the skies over the Pacific are crystal clear.
Distance: 323 km (201 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 32 min
Departure: PAC (8.973340034484863, -79.55560302734375)
Arrival: DAV (8.390999794006348, -82.43499755859375)
Route Type: Domestic
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