The duration of a journey by air between Punta Cana International Airport (PUJ) in the Dominican Republic and Miami International Airport (MIA) in the United States is influenced by several factors. These include the specific route taken, prevailing winds, and air traffic control. Non-stop flights generally offer the quickest travel option, while connecting flights involve longer overall travel durations due to layovers and potential delays.
Understanding the typical duration of this popular travel route is crucial for travelers planning vacations or business trips. Accurate estimations facilitate effective scheduling of connecting flights, ground transportation, and other logistical arrangements. This information empowers travelers to minimize travel-related stress and maximize their time at their destination. Historically, advancements in aviation technology and air traffic management have contributed to reducing travel times between these two destinations.
This article will further explore factors influencing travel duration, offer tips for finding the most efficient flights, and provide resources for real-time flight tracking and updates.
1. Direct Flights
Direct flights play a crucial role in minimizing travel time between Punta Cana and Miami. By eliminating layovers and associated waiting periods, direct routes offer the quickest option for traversing this popular Caribbean-U.S. corridor. Understanding the benefits and characteristics of direct flights is essential for efficient travel planning.
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Scheduled Flight Duration
Airlines typically schedule direct flights between Punta Cana (PUJ) and Miami (MIA) for approximately 2.5 to 3 hours. This represents the estimated time an aircraft spends in the air, excluding time spent taxiing, boarding, or deplaning. While scheduled times provide a benchmark, actual flight durations can vary due to external factors.
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Impact of Weather and Air Traffic
Unfavorable weather conditions, such as storms or strong headwinds, can increase flight times. Similarly, air traffic congestion, particularly around major hubs like Miami, can lead to delays and extended flight durations. Monitoring weather forecasts and real-time flight tracking resources can offer insights into potential disruptions.
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Airline Options and Schedules
Several airlines offer direct flights between Punta Cana and Miami, each with varying schedules and pricing structures. Researching available airlines and their typical flight performance on this route can inform decisions regarding both cost and potential travel time. Flexibility with travel dates and times may allow for selection of more optimal flight options.
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Benefits of Direct Travel
Beyond minimizing overall travel time, direct flights reduce the complexities associated with connecting flights, such as baggage transfers and potential missed connections. This simplified travel experience is particularly advantageous for time-sensitive trips or those traveling with children or large amounts of luggage.
Choosing a direct flight offers the most time-efficient way to travel between Punta Cana and Miami. While external factors like weather can still influence the final duration, opting for a direct route typically ensures the shortest travel time, streamlining the overall travel experience and maximizing time spent at the destination.
2. Connecting Flights
Connecting flights represent a significant factor influencing overall travel time between Punta Cana and Miami. While often offering cost savings compared to direct routes, connecting flights introduce additional travel time due to layovers, potentially impacting travel plans. Understanding the complexities and implications of connecting flights is crucial for informed decision-making.
The primary impact of connecting flights lies in the extended duration introduced by layovers. A layover involves a scheduled stop at an intermediate airport before reaching the final destination. Layover durations can vary significantly, ranging from a short one-hour connection to extended periods of several hours or even overnight stays. Each connection adds to the total travel time, potentially exceeding the duration of a direct flight by several hours. For example, a connecting flight through Charlotte (CLT) might add 3-4 hours to the overall journey compared to a direct flight to Miami. The additional time spent in transit should be carefully considered when evaluating travel options.
Furthermore, connecting flights introduce an increased risk of delays. A delayed departure or arrival on the first leg of the journey can impact subsequent connections, leading to missed flights and significant disruptions to travel itineraries. While airlines often strive to minimize connection times, unforeseen circumstances such as weather disruptions or mechanical issues can introduce delays, making tight connections risky. Travelers opting for connecting flights should factor in potential delays and consider booking itineraries with longer layover times to mitigate this risk. Choosing connecting flights necessitates a thorough understanding of the potential trade-offs between cost savings and the increased risk of extended travel times due to layovers and potential delays. Careful planning and consideration of layover durations, airline schedules, and potential disruptions are crucial for informed decision-making.
3. Airline Choice
Airline choice significantly influences the overall travel experience between Punta Cana and Miami, particularly concerning flight duration. Different airlines operate varying aircraft types, employ distinct routing strategies, and offer diverse schedules, all of which impact the total time spent in transit. Selecting an airline necessitates careful consideration of these factors to optimize travel efficiency.
Route selection constitutes a primary factor differentiating airlines. While some airlines offer direct flights, minimizing travel time, others may route passengers through connecting hubs, significantly extending the overall journey. For instance, choosing an airline offering a direct flight might entail a travel time of approximately 2.5 hours, whereas opting for an airline with a connection could increase the duration to 5 hours or more, depending on the layover. Therefore, prioritizing airlines offering non-stop service generally results in shorter travel times.
Aircraft type also plays a role, albeit less significant, in determining flight duration. While most commercial jets maintain comparable cruising speeds, subtle variations can exist. More importantly, an airline’s fleet composition influences the availability of direct flights. Airlines operating larger aircraft may offer more direct routes due to higher passenger capacity, potentially impacting route options and flight durations.
Scheduling variations among airlines can also influence travel time. Departure and arrival times throughout the day can determine the overall duration, particularly when considering connections. Choosing an airline with a convenient schedule aligning with personal preferences can streamline travel logistics and reduce overall transit time. Consulting airline schedules and comparing departure/arrival times aids in selecting the most time-efficient option. Ultimately, selecting an airline requires evaluating a combination of factors, including route options, aircraft type, and scheduling. Prioritizing airlines offering direct flights generally minimizes travel time. Thorough research into airline offerings provides travelers with the information necessary to optimize flight choices and ensure a more efficient journey between Punta Cana and Miami.
4. Time of Year
Seasonal variations significantly influence travel dynamics between Punta Cana and Miami, impacting flight availability, pricing, and potentially even flight duration. Understanding these seasonal fluctuations enables informed decision-making regarding travel planning and cost optimization.
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Peak Season
Peak season, typically coinciding with major holidays and winter months (December-March), experiences the highest demand for flights between Punta Cana and Miami. This surge in demand often results in increased airfares and potentially longer flight times due to heightened air traffic congestion. Booking flights well in advance is crucial during peak season to secure preferred itineraries and manage costs.
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Shoulder Season
Shoulder seasons (April-May & September-November) offer a balance between favorable weather conditions and manageable crowds. Flight prices typically moderate during these periods, offering potential cost savings compared to peak season. Flight durations are less likely to be impacted by excessive air traffic, providing a smoother travel experience.
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Off-Season
The off-season (June-August) typically witnesses lower demand, resulting in the most affordable flight options. While this period coincides with the hurricane season in the Caribbean, careful monitoring of weather forecasts and flexible travel plans can mitigate potential disruptions. Flight durations are generally unaffected by air traffic during the off-season.
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Special Events and Holidays
Specific events and holidays, such as Spring Break or local festivals, can create temporary spikes in demand, impacting flight prices and availability. These periods might also experience slightly extended flight durations due to increased air traffic. Researching local events and holiday calendars can help anticipate and navigate these fluctuations.
Considering seasonal influences on flight availability, pricing, and potential duration empowers travelers to make informed decisions. Strategic planning, including flexible travel dates and advance bookings, particularly during peak season, can optimize travel costs and minimize potential disruptions.
5. Weather Conditions
Weather conditions represent a significant factor influencing flight times between Punta Cana and Miami. Atmospheric variations, both at the departure and arrival airports, as well as en route, can impact flight paths, airspeeds, and ultimately, the overall duration of the journey. Understanding the influence of weather is crucial for managing travel expectations and potential disruptions.
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Tropical Storms and Hurricanes
The Caribbean region, including Punta Cana, experiences a hurricane season extending from June to November. Tropical storms and hurricanes can cause significant flight disruptions, resulting in cancellations, delays, and diversions. Flights may be grounded for extended periods, impacting travel plans. Even if flights operate, they may encounter turbulence and altered flight paths, leading to increased flight times. Monitoring tropical weather forecasts is crucial during this season.
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Wind Patterns and Jet Streams
Prevailing wind patterns and the position of the jet stream significantly influence flight times. Headwinds, opposing the direction of flight, increase travel time, while tailwinds, pushing the aircraft along its path, can reduce duration. Flights between Punta Cana and Miami can be affected by variations in these wind patterns, leading to fluctuations in flight times. Real-time flight tracking often reveals the impact of wind on flight paths and speeds.
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Fog and Visibility
Fog and reduced visibility, particularly at the destination airport in Miami, can impact landing procedures and flight schedules. Low visibility conditions might require aircraft to hold, circling the airport until visibility improves, increasing flight time. In severe cases, flights might be diverted to alternate airports, leading to substantial delays and requiring alternative ground transportation arrangements. Checking weather forecasts for both departure and arrival locations is important.
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Thunderstorms and Convection
Thunderstorms, common in both Punta Cana and Miami, pose challenges to air travel. Aircraft typically avoid flying directly through thunderstorms due to turbulence and lightning risks. This can necessitate altered flight paths, increasing mileage and overall flight duration. Additionally, ground delays due to thunderstorms at either airport can cascade through the system, impacting subsequent flights and extending travel times.
Weather conditions are a dynamic element impacting air travel between Punta Cana and Miami. Monitoring forecasts, anticipating potential disruptions, and understanding the interplay of various weather phenomena empower travelers to manage expectations and adapt to changing circumstances, ensuring a smoother, albeit potentially longer, travel experience. Real-time flight tracking and airline communication provide valuable updates throughout the journey.
6. Air Traffic Control
Air traffic control (ATC) plays a critical role in determining flight times between Punta Cana and Miami. ATC manages the flow of aircraft within designated airspace, ensuring safe separation and efficient routing. Its influence on flight duration stems primarily from its ability to manage congestion, prioritize departures and arrivals, and assign optimal flight paths. Congestion, particularly around major hubs like Miami International Airport, can lead to holding patterns and delayed arrivals. ATC’s strategic management of inbound and outbound traffic aims to minimize these delays, but they can still contribute to increased flight times. For example, during peak travel periods or inclement weather, aircraft destined for Miami might be held in holding patterns, adding to the overall flight duration. Conversely, efficient ATC operations during less congested periods can streamline arrivals and departures, contributing to shorter flight times.
Furthermore, ATC assigns specific flight paths, optimizing routes based on factors such as wind conditions, weather systems, and other air traffic. These assigned routes can sometimes deviate from the most direct path between Punta Cana and Miami, potentially influencing overall flight time. While deviations are generally implemented for safety or efficiency reasons, they can add mileage and thus duration to the flight. For instance, diverting aircraft around a thunderstorm cell near the flight path enhances safety but might lengthen the overall journey.
In summary, air traffic control exerts a notable influence on flight durations between Punta Cana and Miami. Its primary functions managing traffic flow, assigning routes, and ensuring safe separation directly impact the time an aircraft spends in transit. Understanding the role of ATC provides context for potential variations in flight times, highlighting the complexities of air travel beyond scheduled durations. While efficient ATC operations strive to minimize delays and optimize routes, external factors and safety considerations can influence flight paths and contribute to fluctuations in overall travel time.
7. Aircraft Type
Aircraft type, while not a primary determinant, subtly influences flight durations between Punta Cana and Miami. Variations in cruising speeds, fuel efficiency, and passenger capacity among different aircraft models contribute to nuanced differences in overall travel time. Understanding these distinctions provides a comprehensive perspective on the factors affecting flight durations.
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Cruising Speed
While commercial aircraft generally maintain similar cruising speeds, subtle variations exist between different models. A higher cruising speed can marginally reduce flight time, particularly over longer distances. For instance, a Boeing 737 might have a slightly higher cruising speed than an Airbus A320, potentially shaving off a few minutes on the Punta Cana to Miami route. However, these differences are typically minimal and often overshadowed by other factors like air traffic control or weather conditions.
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Fuel Efficiency
Fuel efficiency indirectly impacts flight time. More fuel-efficient aircraft may be able to take more direct routes, reducing overall distance and consequently, flight duration. While the impact on the relatively short Punta Cana-Miami route is likely negligible, fuel efficiency becomes a more significant factor on longer international flights where route optimization plays a larger role.
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Passenger Capacity
Aircraft size, and thus passenger capacity, can indirectly influence flight duration through its impact on airline scheduling. Airlines operating larger aircraft with greater passenger capacity might offer more frequent direct flights, reducing the likelihood of needing a connecting flight with a longer layover. Higher passenger capacity contributes to route optimization and potentially shorter travel times for passengers.
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Impact on Route Choice
Certain aircraft types are better suited for shorter routes like Punta Cana to Miami due to operational efficiency. Smaller, regional jets might be preferred for shorter flights, while larger, wide-body aircraft are generally reserved for longer international routes. The choice of aircraft indirectly influences route availability and therefore, potential flight durations for travelers. Smaller aircraft operating shorter routes often contribute to more frequent direct flight options.
While aircraft type plays a nuanced role in determining flight times between Punta Cana and Miami, its influence is generally less pronounced than factors like weather or air traffic control. However, understanding the interplay of cruising speed, fuel efficiency, and passenger capacity offers a comprehensive view of the factors affecting flight duration. The choice of aircraft by an airline subtly influences route availability and flight frequency, ultimately impacting overall travel time for passengers on this specific route.
8. Distance
Geographical distance forms a fundamental constraint on flight duration between Punta Cana and Miami. While other factors like wind and air traffic control influence the actual flight time, the distance traversed dictates a minimum travel duration. Understanding the role of distance provides a foundation for comprehending the overall time commitment associated with this journey.
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Fixed Geographical Distance
The distance between Punta Cana International Airport (PUJ) and Miami International Airport (MIA) remains constant, approximately 1,090 miles (1,755 kilometers). This fixed distance sets a lower bound on the possible flight duration. Even under ideal conditions with strong tailwinds and minimal air traffic, the aircraft must still traverse this physical distance, requiring a certain minimum amount of time.
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Flight Path Deviations
While the geographical distance remains fixed, actual flight paths may deviate due to weather patterns, air traffic control instructions, or other operational considerations. These deviations can increase the total distance flown, consequently impacting flight duration. For example, navigating around a thunderstorm cell or adjusting to air traffic congestion can add mileage to the flight, increasing the time spent in transit.
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Relationship with Flight Time
Distance directly correlates with flight time. Assuming a constant cruising speed, the greater the distance flown, the longer the flight duration. This fundamental relationship underscores the importance of considering distance when evaluating travel options. Direct flights, adhering more closely to the straight-line distance between the two airports, generally offer shorter flight times compared to connecting flights which introduce additional mileage.
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Impact of Aircraft Performance
While distance remains constant, aircraft performance characteristics, like cruising speed, subtly influence how quickly that distance can be covered. Higher cruising speeds result in shorter flight times for a given distance. However, the impact of cruising speed variations among commercial aircraft on the relatively short Punta Cana-Miami route is generally minor compared to other factors affecting flight duration, such as air traffic control.
Distance serves as a foundational factor influencing flight time between Punta Cana and Miami. Understanding the fixed geographical distance, potential flight path deviations, and the relationship between distance and aircraft performance provides a comprehensive perspective on how distance contributes to overall travel time. While other variables influence the final flight duration, distance remains a crucial element in planning and managing travel expectations for this route.
9. Wind Speeds
Wind speeds represent a significant, yet often overlooked, factor influencing flight times between Punta Cana and Miami. While the geographical distance remains constant, the impact of wind on an aircraft’s progress through the air can noticeably affect the overall duration of the journey. Understanding the influence of wind speeds provides valuable context for potential variations in flight times.
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Headwinds and Tailwinds
Headwinds, blowing directly against the aircraft’s direction of travel, effectively reduce its ground speed, increasing flight time. Conversely, tailwinds, pushing the aircraft along its intended path, increase ground speed and shorten flight duration. For example, a strong headwind might add 30 minutes to a flight from Punta Cana to Miami, while a comparable tailwind could shave off a similar amount of time. The strength and direction of winds along the flight path significantly influence overall travel time.
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Jet Stream Influence
The jet stream, a high-altitude band of strong winds, plays a crucial role in transatlantic flights and can also affect flights within the Caribbean region. Depending on its position and direction, the jet stream can create favorable tailwinds or unfavorable headwinds for flights between Punta Cana and Miami. Airlines often adjust flight paths to take advantage of or mitigate the impact of the jet stream, influencing flight duration. Flights aligned with the jet stream’s direction can experience significantly reduced travel times.
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Altitude and Wind Shear
Wind speeds vary with altitude. Pilots often adjust flight altitudes to find more favorable wind conditions, optimizing for speed and fuel efficiency. Wind shear, a sudden change in wind speed or direction with altitude, poses a potential hazard during takeoff and landing. While wind shear doesn’t directly impact overall flight time, it can influence initial climb and final descent profiles, slightly affecting the total duration.
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Impact on Flight Planning
Airlines consider prevailing wind patterns and forecasts when planning flight routes and schedules. Forecasted headwinds can lead to increased fuel allocation and potentially longer scheduled flight times. Real-time wind data informs in-flight adjustments to optimize flight paths, minimizing the impact of headwinds or maximizing the benefit of tailwinds. This dynamic adaptation to wind conditions contributes to variations in actual flight times compared to initial schedules.
Wind speeds represent a dynamic element impacting flight times between Punta Cana and Miami. Understanding the influence of headwinds, tailwinds, the jet stream, and wind shear provides a more comprehensive understanding of the factors contributing to variations in flight duration. While the geographical distance remains fixed, the impact of wind underscores the complexity of air travel and the continuous interplay of atmospheric conditions affecting overall travel time.
Frequently Asked Questions
This section addresses common inquiries regarding flight durations between Punta Cana and Miami, providing concise and informative responses.
Question 1: What is the typical flight time for a direct flight from Punta Cana to Miami?
Direct flights typically range from 2.5 to 3 hours.
Question 2: How do connecting flights affect overall travel time?
Connecting flights add additional time due to layovers, potentially extending the journey by several hours depending on the connection duration and airport.
Question 3: How does the time of year impact flight duration?
While the time of year doesn’t directly change the flight time, peak seasons might experience slightly longer durations due to increased air traffic congestion.
Question 4: What role do weather conditions play in influencing flight times?
Adverse weather, such as storms or strong headwinds, can lengthen flight times due to rerouting or slower airspeeds.
Question 5: Can air traffic control affect how long a flight takes?
Air traffic control can impact flight times. Holding patterns due to congestion or rerouting for safety reasons can increase overall duration.
Question 6: Does the type of aircraft influence flight time?
Aircraft type has a minimal impact on flight time for this route. Variations in cruising speeds between aircraft models are generally negligible compared to other factors.
Understanding the factors influencing flight durations allows for more realistic travel planning. Consulting real-time flight tracking resources and airline updates provides the most accurate information for specific flights.
For further information regarding travel logistics, baggage allowances, and specific airline policies, consult the resources provided in the following section.
Tips for Optimizing Travel Time
Minimizing travel time requires strategic planning and consideration of various factors influencing flight durations. The following tips provide practical guidance for optimizing travel efficiency between Punta Cana and Miami.
Tip 1: Book Direct Flights Whenever Possible
Direct flights eliminate the time spent on layovers and transfers, offering the quickest travel option. Prioritizing direct routes streamlines the journey and reduces overall travel time.
Tip 2: Travel During Off-Peak Seasons
Shoulder seasons (spring and fall) or the off-season (summer) often experience less air traffic congestion, reducing the likelihood of delays and potentially shortening overall travel time. Flexibility with travel dates allows for greater control over flight duration.
Tip 3: Check Airline Schedules Carefully
Different airlines offer varying schedules, which can influence overall travel time, especially when connections are involved. Carefully comparing departure and arrival times across airlines can reveal more time-efficient options.
Tip 4: Monitor Weather Forecasts
Adverse weather conditions can lead to delays and increased flight times. Staying informed about weather patterns allows travelers to anticipate potential disruptions and adjust plans accordingly. Real-time weather tracking apps provide up-to-date information.
Tip 5: Consider Flight Tracking Resources
Real-time flight tracking websites and apps provide updates on flight status, potential delays, and actual flight paths. This information allows travelers to monitor their flight’s progress and manage expectations regarding arrival times.
Tip 6: Allow Ample Connection Time
If connecting flights are unavoidable, booking itineraries with longer layover times provides a buffer against potential delays on the first leg of the journey. Adequate connection time reduces the risk of missed connections and subsequent travel disruptions.
Tip 7: Book Flights in Advance, Especially During Peak Season
Booking flights well in advance, particularly during peak travel periods, secures preferred itineraries and mitigates the risk of limited availability or inflated prices. Early booking also allows for greater choice in flight times and potentially shorter travel durations.
Employing these strategies enhances travel efficiency, reduces potential stress associated with travel delays, and maximizes time spent at one’s destination. Careful planning and informed decision-making contribute significantly to a smoother, more time-effective travel experience.
By understanding the various elements influencing travel time and utilizing these practical tips, travelers can make informed decisions to optimize their journeys and minimize time spent in transit. The subsequent conclusion summarizes the key takeaways and emphasizes the importance of efficient travel planning.
Conclusion
The duration of flights from Punta Cana to Miami represents a multifaceted topic influenced by a confluence of factors. This exploration has highlighted the interplay of direct versus connecting routes, the impact of seasonal variations, the significance of weather conditions and air traffic control, and the nuanced role of aircraft type, distance, and wind speeds. While scheduled flight times provide a baseline, the dynamic nature of air travel necessitates an understanding of these contributing elements to manage expectations effectively. Direct flights generally offer the shortest travel times, typically ranging from 2.5 to 3 hours. However, connecting flights, while potentially extending overall journey duration due to layovers, might offer cost advantages. Seasonal variations introduce fluctuations in demand, influencing both pricing and potential congestion, indirectly impacting flight times. Weather conditions, including storms, wind patterns, and visibility, represent a dynamic element capable of significantly altering flight durations. Air traffic control procedures, while striving to optimize efficiency and safety, can introduce delays, particularly around busy hubs like Miami International Airport. Aircraft type plays a nuanced role, with variations in cruising speeds and fuel efficiency contributing subtly to overall flight time differences. The fixed geographical distance between Punta Cana and Miami establishes a fundamental lower limit on travel time, while wind speeds, through headwinds and tailwinds, influence the actual duration.
Effective management of travel time necessitates a comprehensive understanding of these factors. Informed decision-making, incorporating real-time flight tracking data, weather forecasts, and airline-specific information, empowers travelers to optimize their journeys and mitigate potential disruptions. Strategic planning, including careful consideration of travel dates, airline choices, and route options, contributes significantly to minimizing travel time and maximizing time spent at one’s destination. Prospective travelers are encouraged to utilize the insights provided within this analysis to make informed decisions and ensure efficient, timely journeys between Punta Cana and Miami.
