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PTY → LAX
Which side of the plane to sit from Tocumen International Airport (Panama City) to Los Angeles International Airport (Los Angeles)?
Right Side of the Plane
The right side of the aircraft offers a diverse array of views ranging from the soaring skyscrapers of Panama City to the dramatic volcanic chains of Central America and the stark desert beauty of the US-Mexico border region.
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Panama City Skyline
A stunning view of the 'Dubai of Latin America' with its dense cluster of modern skyscrapers along the bay.
Central American Volcanoes
Aerial perspective of the volcanic arc through El Salvador and Guatemala, often seeing smoke from active peaks.
Sonoran Desert
The intricate patterns of the Mexican and Arizonan deserts featuring dry riverbeds and dramatic rock formations.
Salton Sea
A massive, reflective endorheic rift lake located in the California desert near the end of the journey.
Los Angeles Basin
Detailed views of the Inland Empire, San Bernardino Mountains, and the vast urban sprawl of Southern California.
The right side is generally the shaded side for the majority of this northward flight, making it easier to take photos without glare. Watch closely during the first 10 minutes for the city skyline and the final 30 minutes for the dramatic transition from desert to the Los Angeles metropolis.
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Panama Canal Entrance
Look down shortly after takeoff to see the Bridge of the Americas and massive cargo ships queued for the canal entrance.
Nicoya Peninsula
Views of Costa Rica's lush coastline and remote Pacific beaches as the flight heads northwest.
Gulf of Tehuantepec
Sweeping views of the vast Pacific Ocean and the rugged southern coastline of the Mexican state of Oaxaca.
Pacific Horizon
On afternoon flights, this side provides front-row seats to spectacular sunsets over the open ocean.
Choose a window seat mid-cabin or forward to avoid wing obstruction of the Panama Canal. Afternoon flights can be very bright on this side; bring sunglasses or be prepared to lower the window shade until the sun begins to set.
Get eSIMs for Panama
Get eSIMs for United StatesDistance: 4,845 km (3,011 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 5 hrs 42 min
Departure: PTY (9.0713596344, -79.3834991455)
Arrival: LAX (33.94250107, -118.4079971)
Route Type: International
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