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PTY â GDL
Which side of the plane to sit from Tocumen International Airport (Panama City) to Don Miguel Hidalgo Y Costilla International Airport (Guadalajara)?
Right Side of the Plane
The right side of the aircraft offers a front-row seat to the dramatic Central American volcanic arc and the diverse Mexican coastline, concluding with a scenic approach over Lake Chapala.
Panama Canal & City
Incredible views of the Miraflores Locks, the Bridge of the Americas, and the modern Panama City skyline shortly after takeoff.
Volcanic Arc
Clear sightings of the impressive volcanoes of Nicaragua and Guatemala, including the active Fuego and Acatenango peaks.
Acapulco Bay
A bird's-eye view of the famous crescent-shaped bay and the high-rise hotels along the Mexican Riviera.
Sierra Madre del Sur
The rugged, deep green ridges of the southern Mexican mountain ranges as the flight transitions inland.
Lake Chapala
A stunning view of Mexico's largest freshwater lake just minutes before landing at GDL.
This is the premier side for geography lovers. For the best views of the Panama Canal, ensure you are seated on the right. During the mid-flight, keep your eyes peeled for the distinct conical shapes of the Central American volcanoes. On the final approach to GDL, the right side typically offers the most iconic view of Lake Chapala and the surrounding mountains.
Gulf of Panama
Expansive views of the Pacific entrance to the Panama Canal and the Pearl Islands during the initial climb.
Osa Peninsula
Distant glimpses of Costa Rica's lush, biodiverse coastline and the deep blue waters of the Pacific.
Pacific Horizon
Uninterrupted views of the horizon, perfect for capturing sunset colors on late afternoon flights.
Agave Landscapes
As the plane banks toward Guadalajara, look for the sprawling blue agave fields characteristic of Jalisco.
The left side is preferable for afternoon flights to avoid the harsh direct sunlight coming from the west. While it offers fewer land-based landmarks, it provides a peaceful view of the vast Pacific Ocean and better lighting for photography of the Jalisco highlands during descent.
Distance: 2,864 km (1,780 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 3 hrs 49 min
Departure: PTY (9.0713596344, -79.3834991455)
Arrival: GDL (20.521799087524418, -103.31099700927734)
Route Type: International
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