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PTY → IAD
Which side of the plane to sit from Tocumen International Airport (Panama City) to Washington Dulles International Airport (Washington)?
Right Side of the Plane
The right side offers a superior mix of Caribbean island chains, the stunning Outer Banks of North Carolina, and a more detailed approach into the Chesapeake Bay area.
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San Blas Islands
The Guna Yala archipelago's white sand atolls and crystal-clear turquoise waters.
Jardines del Rey
The intricate coral reefs and keys along the northern coast of central Cuba.
Outer Banks
The iconic thin strip of barrier islands stretching along the North Carolina coast.
Chesapeake Bay
Dramatic views of the massive estuary, bridges, and the Virginia coastline during descent.
Potomac River
On the final approach to IAD, you can often see the winding river and the outskirts of the DC metro area.
The right side is excellent for afternoon flights as the sun will be behind the plane or on the opposite side. Look out for the San Blas Islands about 20 minutes after departure. During the final 30 minutes, keep your camera ready for the transition from the Atlantic coastline into the Chesapeake Bay.
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Panama Canal
Aerial view of the Gatun Locks and ships transiting the canal shortly after departure.
Gatun Lake
A massive man-made lake surrounded by dense tropical rainforest and canal infrastructure.
Western Cuba
Views of the Pinar del Río province and potentially the city of Havana depending on the flight path.
Florida Keys
The turquoise waters and bridge-connected islands of the southernmost point of the US.
Sit on the left for the best views of the Panama Canal infrastructure immediately after takeoff. This side is also preferable for morning flights to avoid direct sunlight and glare, providing better conditions for photography of the Caribbean coastline.
Get eSIMs for Panama
Get eSIMs for United StatesDistance: 3,327 km (2,067 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 3 hrs 55 min
Departure: PTY (9.0713596344, -79.3834991455)
Arrival: IAD (38.94449997, -77.45580292)
Route Type: International
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