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VLN โ PTY
Which side of the plane to sit from Arturo Michelena International Airport (Valencia) to Tocumen International Airport (Panama City)?
Right Side of the Plane
The right side offers spectacular coastal views of the Venezuelan and Colombian Caribbean, followed by a breathtaking approach over the San Blas archipelago and the Panama Canal entrance.
Paraguanรก Peninsula
The distinctive northward-stretching peninsula of Venezuela known for its arid climate.
La Guajira Desert
The stunning contrast where the orange sands of the Colombian desert meet the deep blue Caribbean.
San Blas Islands
Over 300 tiny, turquoise-ringed islands of the Guna Yala territory as you approach Panama.
Panama Canal Anchorage
Dozens of massive cargo ships anchored in the Bay of Panama waiting for their canal transit.
Panama City Skyline
The 'Miami of the South' with its impressive cluster of skyscrapers visible during the final approach.
This side is superior for midday flights to see the vibrant colors of the San Blas coral reefs. As the plane descends into PTY, keep your camera ready for the cargo ships clustered at the Pacific entrance of the Canal. Polarized sunglasses will help reduce glare from the Caribbean Sea.
Lake Valencia
Aerial view of Venezuela's second-largest lake immediately after takeoff from VLN.
Cordillera de la Costa
Dramatic views of the coastal mountain range as you climb to cruising altitude.
Sierra Nevada de Santa Marta
The world's highest coastal mountain range in Colombia, featuring rare snow-capped peaks near the tropics.
Darien Gap
The dense, roadless jungle wilderness separating South and Central America.
Sit here during morning flights to avoid direct sunlight. Look out for the high peaks of the Sierra Nevada de Santa Marta approximately 45 minutes into the flight. During the descent, you may catch views of the Panamanian mainland mountains.
Distance: 1,262 km (784 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 1 hr 41 min
Departure: VLN (10.14973258972168, -67.92839813232422)
Arrival: PTY (9.0713596344, -79.3834991455)
Route Type: International
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