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PTY → TPA
Which side of the plane to sit from Tocumen International Airport (Panama City) to Tampa International Airport (Tampa)?
Right Side of the Plane
While both sides offer stunning views of the Caribbean, the right side provides an unparalleled look at the San Blas Islands early in the flight and the iconic Sunshine Skyway Bridge during the arrival into Tampa.
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San Blas Archipelago
Hundreds of tiny coral islands surrounded by crystal-clear turquoise water belonging to the Guna Yala territory.
Havana
Aerial perspective of the historic Cuban capital, its iconic Malecon sea wall, and the bustling harbor.
Sunshine Skyway Bridge
The golden-yellow cables of this world-famous bridge are clearly visible when the flight approaches from the south over Tampa Bay.
Egmont Key
A historic island at the mouth of Tampa Bay featuring a lighthouse and ruins of a 19th-century fort.
Downtown Tampa
A sweeping view of the city skyline and the Hillsborough River just before touchdown.
The right side is essential for seeing the San Blas Islands, which appear approximately 15-20 minutes after departure. On approach to Tampa, try to spot the Skyway Bridge; it is a highlight of the trip. Afternoon flights may experience some glare on this side as the sun moves west.
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Panama Canal Entrance
View the Pacific entrance of the canal and the massive queue of cargo ships waiting to transit shortly after takeoff.
Nicaraguan Coastline
The dense, emerald green rainforests of the Mosquito Coast are visible as the flight tracks north along Central America.
Pinar del Río
The westernmost province of Cuba featuring unique mogotes (limestone hills) and lush tobacco fields.
St. Pete Beaches
Breathtaking views of the white sands of St. Pete Beach and Treasure Island as the plane turns for its final approach.
Sit on the left for morning flights to keep the sun behind the aircraft, providing better lighting for photos of the Central American coast. During the descent into TPA, this side offers the best view of the Gulf of Mexico's emerald waters and the barrier islands.
Get eSIMs for Panama
Get eSIMs for United StatesDistance: 2,128 km (1,322 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 2 hrs 50 min
Departure: PTY (9.0713596344, -79.3834991455)
Arrival: TPA (27.975500106811523, -82.533203125)
Route Type: International
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