Punta Cana to Zurich is 4,676 miles (7,526 km), a flight of about 9 hours 30 minutes.
Left side wins at both ends of the flight — the Caribbean reef coastline on departure and Lake Zurich plus the Alps on arrival. During the cruise, left-side passengers also get better views of the Atlantic and, on the European approach, the French and Swiss landscapes.
Flight Path
The flight tracks northeast across the Atlantic, passing north of the Azores (visible on clear days as small dark volcanic islands in the vast ocean). It crosses the Iberian Peninsula or southern France depending on routing, where the Pyrenees may be visible as a snow-capped mountain chain. Over France, the Massif Central and Rhone Valley corridor are recognizable. Final approach crosses the Jura Mountains and the Swiss Mittelland before descending into Zurich.
Great circle distance and headings ›
Phase by phase
Takeoff from PUJ
LEFTPunta Cana's runway 08/26 means departures heading east then turning northeast will give left-side passengers views over the Caribbean coastline and the resort strip along Bavaro Beach. The turquoise shallow water over the coral reef shelf is vivid from low altitude and the contrast with the deep blue Atlantic is striking.
Landing at ZRH
LEFTZurich typically uses runway 14/28 or 16/34 depending on wind. On the common approach to runway 14 or 16 from the northeast, left-side passengers get a clear view over Lake Zurich, the city center, and the Glarus Alps in the background. The lake and city layout are unmistakable from the descent.
Landmarks on this routeAll landmarks →
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About This Route
Which side of the plane should I sit on flying from Punta Cana International (PUJ) to Zurich (ZRH)?
Sit on the Left side of the plane for the best views on flights from Punta Cana to Zurich. Left side wins at both ends of the flight — the Caribbean reef coastline on departure and Lake Zurich plus the Alps on arrival. During the cruise, left-side passengers also get better views of the Atlantic and, on the European approach, the French and Swiss landscapes.
What can I see during takeoff from Punta Cana International in Punta Cana?
During takeoff from Punta Cana International (PUJ), sit on the Left side for the best views. Punta Cana's runway 08/26 means departures heading east then turning northeast will give left-side passengers views over the Caribbean coastline and the resort strip along Bavaro Beach. The turquoise shallow water over the coral reef shelf is vivid from low altitude and the contrast with the deep blue Atlantic is striking. Notable sights include: Bavaro Beach resort strip, Caribbean reef shelf (turquoise shallows), Punta Cana coastline, Saona Island to the south.
What can I see when landing at Zurich in Zurich?
When landing at Zurich (ZRH), sit on the Left side for the best views. Zurich typically uses runway 14/28 or 16/34 depending on wind. On the common approach to runway 14 or 16 from the northeast, left-side passengers get a clear view over Lake Zurich, the city center, and the Glarus Alps in the background. The lake and city layout are unmistakable from the descent. Notable sights include: Lake Zurich, Zurich city center and old town, Glarus Alps to the southeast, Lake Greifen.
How long is the flight from Punta Cana to Zurich?
The flight from Punta Cana International (PUJ) to Zurich (ZRH) takes about 9 hours 30 minutes. The shortest flight path between them is 4,676 miles (7,526 km); winds and air traffic control usually add a few percent.
What does the Punta Cana to Zurich flight path pass over?
The flight tracks northeast across the Atlantic, passing north of the Azores (visible on clear days as small dark volcanic islands in the vast ocean). It crosses the Iberian Peninsula or southern France depending on routing, where the Pyrenees may be visible as a snow-capped mountain chain. Over France, the Massif Central and Rhone Valley corridor are recognizable. Final approach crosses the Jura Mountains and the Swiss Mittelland before descending into Zurich.