Copa Airlines announced a significant expansion of its Panama City-David route, increasing its weekly flight frequencies to meet growing demand for domestic air travel. The airline has moved from 20 weekly flights in October to 23 in November, and will operate up to 25 weekly frequencies during the 2026 high season.
According to Diego Bermúdez, Copa Airlines’ Director of Sales, the increase represents a 40% rise in seating capacity compared to the previous year. The airline is currently operating between 23 and 25 flights per week, with peak periods such as Carnival reaching the maximum frequency.
Copa projects transporting approximately 230,000 passengers in 2025 on the domestic Panama City-David route. This figure is expected to rise in 2026 due to expanded capacity and joint promotional efforts with the Panama Tourism Authority.
Fares and Flight Schedule
Bermúdez noted that promotional fares have been released, though the average one-way price remains around $99, depending on demand and availability. Round-trip travel typically starts near $200, with the lowest one-way fares beginning at $42 and $84.
During high season, Copa will operate three daily flights on weekdays and up to four flights per day on weekends between Tocumen International Airport and Enrique Malek Airport in David.
Cargo Growth
In addition to passenger movement, Copa Airlines has transported over 151 tons of cargo on the Chiriquí-Panama route so far in 2025. The majority consists of agricultural and seafood products destined for markets including Los Ángeles, Miami, Shanghái, Osaka, Seúl, Dubái, San José and Aruba. Imports of flowers from Ecuador, Costa Rica and Colombia have also recorded steady growth.
Stopover Program Activity
Copa Airlines reports continued expansion of its Stopover program, which allows passengers to visit two destinations for the price of one. The company expects to close 2025 with 185,000 Stopover users, of whom 30% visit interior provinces, including Chiriquí.
Two hotels in Chiriquí currently participate in the program, with the airline seeking to increase local business participation to extend visitor stays beyond the current three-day average.
Regional Perspective
The Chamber of Commerce, Industries, Agriculture and Tourism of Chiriquí noted that rising flight frequencies reflect the broader economic growth of the province. According to President Jorge Tovar, higher connectivity is expected to increase hotel occupancy, consumption of goods and services, and overall economic activity.
Only 25% of passengers travel for leisure, while the remaining majority fly for work, study, or business, indicating diversified mobility within the region.
Thinking About Investing or Relocating to Chiriquí?
Casa Solution has helped thousands of clients find homes, land, and investment properties across all of Chiriquí’s top areas, including Boquete and the Pacific beaches. If you’re exploring opportunities in the region, we’d be happy to guide you with reliable, professional support.
Contact Casa Solution Real Estate
Your trusted real estate experts in Panama
WhatsApp: +507 6611-6049
www.casasolution.com
Article written on November 16, 2025
