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PTY → HAV
Which side of the plane to sit from Tocumen International Airport (Panama City) to José Martí International Airport (Havana)?
Right Side of the Plane
The right side offers a superior visual experience, featuring the stunning Panama City skyline and the Guna Yala (San Blas) islands shortly after takeoff, followed by a scenic approach over the Cuban coastline and Havana's historic landmarks.
Panama City Skyline
Spectacular views of the 'Dubai of Latin America' and the shimmering Bay of Panama.
San Blas Islands
The white-sand cays of the Guna Yala archipelago scattered across the turquoise sea.
Isla de la Juventud
A clear view of Cuba's large southern island, known for its pine forests and history.
Zapata Peninsula
The vast, bird-shaped wetlands and biosphere reserve of southern Cuba.
Havana Landmarks
Spot the Malecón seawall and the Morro Castle fortress when approaching from the east.
Select the right side for the most iconic landmarks. Watch closely within the first 15 minutes of takeoff for the San Blas Islands. On the descent into Havana, this side typically offers a better view of the city center and the harbor, provided the wind dictates an approach from the east.
Panama Canal
Aerial view of the Culebra Cut and the Centennial Bridge spanning the canal.
Soberanía National Park
Dense, lush tropical rainforest canopy extending north of the Panama Canal.
Mosquito Gulf
The rugged and remote Caribbean coastline of western Panama.
Western Horizon
Ideal for unobstructed views of the sunset over the Caribbean on late afternoon flights.
Sit on the left if your flight departs toward the north or west for the best view of the Canal's engineering. On evening flights, this side avoids direct glare during the initial climb but offers the best sunset views once leveled off over the Caribbean.
Distance: 1,581 km (982 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 2 hrs 6 min
Departure: PTY (9.0713596344, -79.3834991455)
Arrival: HAV (22.989200592041016, -82.40910339355469)
Route Type: International
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