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PTY → MAD
Which side of the plane to sit from Tocumen International Airport (Panama City) to Adolfo Suárez Madrid–Barajas Airport (Madrid)?
Left Side of the Plane
The Left Side is generally superior for this eastbound transatlantic route, offering prime views of the Greater Antilles archipelago shortly after takeoff and the scenic mountain ranges of Northern Spain during the descent into Madrid.
Search flights from PTY to MAD
Hispaniola Coastline
Aerial views of the rugged southern and eastern coasts of Haiti and the Dominican Republic.
Puerto Rico
A clear perspective of the northern coast of Puerto Rico, including the San Juan metropolitan area.
The Sargasso Sea
Observation of distinct deep blue water patterns and floating seaweed patches in the North Atlantic.
Bay of Biscay Entry
On more northerly tracks, views of the dramatic cliffs where the Atlantic meets the Cantabrian Sea.
Sierra de Guadarrama
Breathtaking views of the snow-capped mountain peaks north of Madrid during the final descent.
Sit on the left for the best views of the Caribbean islands during the first three hours of flight. Since most PTY-MAD flights are overnight, the left side avoids the direct glare of the rising sun, providing better visibility of the Spanish landmass as you arrive in the morning. Keep your window shade open during the last 45 minutes to catch the transition from the Atlantic to the Iberian Peninsula.
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Pearl Islands
Shortly after departure, views of the archipelago in the Gulf of Panama.
Mid-Atlantic Sunrise
The primary side for witnessing a spectacular sunrise over the open ocean while flying eastward.
Portuguese Coastline
Entry into Europe often provides views of the southern Portuguese beaches and the Algarve region.
The Meseta Central
The high plateau of central Spain, characterized by its golden fields and unique agricultural patterns.
Madrid Financial District
Depending on the runway configuration, views of the Cuatro Torres Business Area skyscrapers.
The right side is perfect for early risers who want to see the sunrise over the Atlantic. Note that the sun can be quite intense during the final hours of the flight, which may require closing the shade. On the approach to MAD, the right side often provides a better view of the arid landscape of the Spanish plateau and the sprawling outskirts of the city.
Book Hotels in MadridDistance: 8,157 km (5,069 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 9 hrs 36 min
Departure: PTY (9.0713596344, -79.3834991455)
Arrival: MAD (40.471926, -3.56264)
Route Type: International
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