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PTY → MEX
Which side of the plane to sit from Tocumen International Airport (Panama City) to Licenciado Benito Juarez International Airport (Mexico City)?
Left Side of the Plane
The left side offers a front-row seat to the dramatic volcanic chain of Central America and a spectacular close-up of the twin volcanoes near Mexico City during descent.
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Panama Canal Entrance
View the Pacific entrance of the canal and the Bridge of the Americas shortly after takeoff from PTY.
Nicoya Peninsula
The rugged and beautiful Pacific coastline of Costa Rica with its deep bays and white sand beaches.
Ometepe Island
The striking twin volcanoes, Concepción and Maderas, rising directly out of the massive Lake Nicaragua.
Sierra Madre de Chiapas
Dense, cloud-covered mountain ranges in Southern Mexico providing a dramatic topographical transition.
Popocatépetl Volcano
An incredible view of the active, snow-capped 'Popo' and its twin Iztaccíhuatl during the approach into MEX.
Morning flights are highly recommended to avoid the convective cloud buildup common over Central American mountains in the afternoon. Look out for the smoking peak of Popocatépetl about 20 minutes before landing; it is the most iconic landmark on this route.
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Panama City Skyline
The impressive 'Dubai of Latin America' skyline with its twisting skyscrapers visible during the initial climb.
Lake Managua
A clear view of Nicaragua's second-largest lake and the Momotombo volcano on its northern shore.
Pico de Orizaba
North America's third highest peak and Mexico's tallest mountain, often seen rising above the clouds.
Mexico City Urban Sprawl
An endless sea of lights or colorful houses stretching across the Valley of Mexico during final descent.
Sit on the right for the best view of the Panama City financial district during takeoff. On clear days, the Pico de Orizaba volcano will appear as a massive white pyramid in the distance to the north as you cross into Central Mexico. Keep your window shade open during landing for the sheer scale of the CDMX megalopolis.
Book Hotels in Mexico CityDistance: 2,411 km (1,498 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 3 hrs 13 min
Departure: PTY (9.0713596344, -79.3834991455)
Arrival: MEX (19.4363, -99.072098)
Route Type: International
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