While takeoff favors the right for canal views, the landing approach over the Chiriquí Highlands and Tabasará valley is more visually rewarding and geographically distinctive. Left seats capture the dramatic transition from lowlands to mountains during descent.
Flown PAC to DAV? Did we get it right?
Flight Path
Panama City to David is 201 miles (323 km), a flight of about 50 minutes.
The flight path westward crosses the Isthmus of Panama's narrowest section. Notable features include the transition from the Panama Canal zone and Gatun Lake area to the forested interior, the Chagres River system, and the gradual rise of terrain toward the Chiriquí Highlands. The Caribbean coast lies to the north throughout the flight, though typically not visible from cruising altitude due to the aircraft's westward track and the curvature of the isthmus. The Tabasará River valley becomes increasingly prominent as the aircraft descends toward David.
Great circle distance and headings ›Phase by phase
Takeoff from PAC
RIGHTRight seats offer views of the Panama Canal approach channels and the Gatun Lake system as the aircraft climbs westward. The canal's cut through the isthmus and associated water infrastructure are distinctive from altitude.
Landing at DAV
LEFTLeft seats provide views of the Chiriquí Highlands and the approach to David over the Tabasará River valley. The mountainous terrain west of David and the valley floor are visually prominent during descent.
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About This Route
Which side of the plane should I sit on flying from Marcos A Gelabert International (PAC) to Enrique Malek International (DAV)?
Sit on the Left side of the plane for the best views on flights from Panama City to David. While takeoff favors the right for canal views, the landing approach over the Chiriquí Highlands and Tabasará valley is more visually rewarding and geographically distinctive. Left seats capture the dramatic transition from lowlands to mountains during descent.
What can I see during takeoff from Marcos A Gelabert International in Panama City?
During takeoff from Marcos A Gelabert International (PAC), sit on the Right side for the best views. Right seats offer views of the Panama Canal approach channels and the Gatun Lake system as the aircraft climbs westward. The canal's cut through the isthmus and associated water infrastructure are distinctive from altitude. Notable sights include: Panama Canal (Gatun Locks area to the northeast), Gatun Lake (large freshwater body), Panama City skyline (to the southeast), Chagres River valley.
What can I see when landing at Enrique Malek International in David?
When landing at Enrique Malek International (DAV), sit on the Left side for the best views. Left seats provide views of the Chiriquí Highlands and the approach to David over the Tabasará River valley. The mountainous terrain west of David and the valley floor are visually prominent during descent. Notable sights include: Chiriquí Highlands (mountain range to the north and west), Tabasará River valley (river system and lowland approach), David city and surrounding agricultural plains, Fortuna Lake (visible as a water body in the highlands).
How long is the flight from Panama City to David?
The flight from Marcos A Gelabert International (PAC) to Enrique Malek International (DAV) takes about 50 minutes. The shortest flight path between them is 201 miles (323 km); winds and air traffic control usually add a few percent.
What does the Panama City to David flight path pass over?
The flight path westward crosses the Isthmus of Panama's narrowest section. Notable features include the transition from the Panama Canal zone and Gatun Lake area to the forested interior, the Chagres River system, and the gradual rise of terrain toward the Chiriquí Highlands. The Caribbean coast lies to the north throughout the flight, though typically not visible from cruising altitude due to the aircraft's westward track and the curvature of the isthmus. The Tabasará River valley becomes increasingly prominent as the aircraft descends toward David.