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PTY → ORD
Which side of the plane to sit from Tocumen International Airport (Panama City) to Chicago O'Hare International Airport (Chicago)?
Left Side of the Plane
The left side offers an unparalleled view of the Panama Canal and the skyscrapers of Panama City immediately after takeoff, followed by excellent perspectives of the Yucatan Peninsula and the winding Mississippi River.
The Panama Canal
Unrivaled views of the Miraflores Locks and the Culebra Cut as the aircraft climbs north over the isthmus.
Panama City Skyline
The dense cluster of coastal skyscrapers, often called the Dubai of Latin America, is visible shortly after departure.
Yucatan Peninsula
Views of the turquoise waters and coral reefs surrounding Cozumel and the Riviera Maya as you cross into the Gulf.
Mississippi River
As the flight enters the U.S. interior, you can often track the winding path of the mighty Mississippi River.
Midwestern Heartland
The intricate grid patterns of Illinois farmlands and massive wind turbine farms during the descent.
Sit on the left for the most iconic views of the Panama Canal. On a late afternoon flight, this side provides spectacular sunset views over the Gulf of Mexico and the American South. Ensure you have a window seat forward of the wing to avoid engine heat haze when photographing the Canal.
Pearl Islands
Distant views of the Archipiélago de las Perlas in the Gulf of Panama during the initial climb.
Western Cuba
On many flight paths, you can spot the lush green mountains of the Pinar del Río province.
Gulf Coast Beaches
The brilliant white sands and emerald waters of the Alabama and Florida panhandles as you make landfall.
Appalachian Foothills
The rolling hills of Tennessee and Kentucky provide a scenic green backdrop during the mid-portion of the trip.
Chicago & Lake Michigan
If landing on the 'Runway 10' or 'Runway 28' patterns, you often get a stunning panoramic view of the Chicago skyline and the blue expanse of Lake Michigan.
Choose the right side if you are hoping for a scenic arrival into Chicago; if the winds are from the east, planes often circle over Lake Michigan, providing a direct view of the Sears (Willis) Tower. This side also stays cooler during morning flights as it faces away from the direct sun for the first half of the journey.
Distance: 3,753 km (2,332 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 4 hrs 25 min
Departure: PTY (9.0713596344, -79.3834991455)
Arrival: ORD (41.9786, -87.9048)
Route Type: International
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