Howard Intl (Panama Pacifico)

1SENAN HQ helispot

Heading to Howard from Panama City, you will have to leave the highway at the Cocolí and Howard exit. The Headquarters of the Coast Guard is right at the exit, you will clearly see the anchors put around the main entrance. The base tennis court, clearly visible once you turn right after leaving the exit, is known to act as a helispot at times. Photography will not be possible due to many obstacles, but reading the chopper will be no problem at all from the main road to the north.

2Main hangars & aprons - east side

After exiting the highway, cross the overpass and turn right again to Howard. The former gate is about 150 metres south from here. Enter the gate, which is no longer guarded, and head south, along the main road. After about 4kms you will see the large hangars on your right hand side. Turn right after the first row of typical Canal Zone apartment blocks and head straight to the fence. A large tree provides shade and you will be able to have a look at the large aprons between the hangars. Drive up and down a bit to make sure you checked all hidden spots and to get glimpses of aircraft inside the hangars.

3Southern apron & runway 18/36 - south east side

Continue south from spot 2 past the two southernmost hangars. Turn right just before the Dell Panama Service Centre. The parking and delivery area at the back of the building provides good views of the southern apron, and if you are lucky and find the hangar doors open, inside the hangar. Even aircraft on the runway can be graphed from here, although many millimeters are needed and heatwaves become a nuisance very rapidly in the morning.

4Main apron & runway 18/36 - north east side

From spot 3, head back to spot 2 and take the first road on your right, which leads straight north. Two long flex buildings can be found just east of the main apron. Various roads lead to the fence, where you can appreciate the enormous apron, and imagine what it could have looked like in the old days. Photography is no problem from here either, whether it is of aircraft taking off or landing, or parked on the apron. Again, many millimeters are needed for action shots and heatwaves may spoil the single opportunity you get.

5Approach 18 - east side

Keep heading north from spot 4, and turn left at the T-junction. This new road leads around the northern threshold. Stop when you have an unlimited view to the left, this is where the actual threshold is located. Aircraft on final approach should be easily visible from here. Photography is best in the morning. Not validated.

6Approach 36 - west side

The southern approach can be reached as well. From Howard, the southern access road may be blocked off. If so, head back to the highway, direction Panama City and take the last exit before the bridge crossing the canal, which is named Veracruz. Drive along the coast, pass the beach, which is located in the southern approach path. Take a right turn twice, this road will lead to the base. It has only been blocked off near the threshold, and provides great views of the southern approach. Photography is best in the afternoon.