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PTY → TGU
Which side of the plane to sit from Tocumen International Airport (Panama City) to Toncontín International Airport (Tegucigalpa)?
Right Side of the Plane
While both sides offer incredible views of the Central American isthmus, the Right Side is superior for its views of the Panama City skyline upon departure and the dramatic, close-up mountain maneuvers during the world-famous approach into Toncontín.
Panama City Skyline
A spectacular view of the 'Dubai of Latin America' with its towering skyscrapers along the Cinta Costera.
Central American Volcanic Arc
A continuous chain of volcanic peaks stretching across Costa Rica and Nicaragua, including Momotombo.
Lake Managua
Views of the shimmering Xolotlán lake and the surrounding geothermal fields of northwestern Nicaragua.
Tegucigalpa Urban Sprawl
During the final banking turn, you get a breathtakingly close view of the colorful houses clinging to the Tegucigalpa hillsides.
The Toncontín Turn
Experience the steep, banking 45-degree turn required to align with Runway 02, one of aviation's most thrilling maneuvers.
The right side is essential for the full 'Toncontín experience.' Sit here to see the city's terrain rushing past the window during the final low-altitude turn. For PTY departures, this side provides the most iconic views of the Panama City skyline. Best viewed on morning flights when the sun illuminates the mountains from the east.
Panama Canal Entrance
Aerial view of the Pacific entrance to the Canal, including the Miraflores Locks and the Bridge of the Americas.
Azuero Peninsula
The rugged coastline of southern Panama, often passing near the biodiversity hotspot of Coiba National Park.
Ometepe Island
The striking twin volcanoes of Concepción and Maderas rising directly out of the massive Lake Nicaragua.
Sierra de Lepaterique
Dense, pine-covered mountain ridges that define the southern approach into the Tegucigalpa valley.
Choose the left side for better views of the Panama Canal's engineering during takeoff. For afternoon flights, the sun will be on this side, so keep window shades down periodically to avoid heat, but stay alert as you cross over Nicaragua for the volcanic islands.
Distance: 1,018 km (633 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 1 hr 21 min
Departure: PTY (9.0713596344, -79.3834991455)
Arrival: TGU (14.06089973449707, -87.21720123291016)
Route Type: International
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