Market Intelligence
Travel and Tourism Panama

Panama Travel and Tourism

Panama’s strategic position as a bridge between North and South America has fostered significant air travel and tourism exchanges with the United States. 

Tocumen International Airport (PTY), Panama’s primary airport, serves as a crucial hub for international flights., The consistent growth in passenger traffic at PTY and the prominence of U.S. destinations underscore the robust and expanding air travel market between Panama and the United States. This trend highlights the importance of these routes for tourism, business, and cultural exchanges, positioning Panama as a key connector in the Americas.

In 2023, PTY achieved a record passenger volume of 17,825,465, surpassing the previous high of 16,582,601 in 2019. Between January and November of 2024, the airport welcomed 17.5 million passengers, marking an 8% year-over-year growth and adding 1,354,528 travelers compared to the same period in the prior year. According to the director of the Civil Aeronautical Authority (AAC), in October 2024, his short-term plans included redesigning Panamanian airspace, which increased the availability of airspace from 35 flights per hour to 50.

In 2023, international departures from Panama totaled approximately 2.6 million passengers, with regional distribution as follows:

  • Latin America: 1.5 million passengers (57%)
  • North America: 788,500 passengers (30%)
  • Europe: 259,100 passengers (10%)

It’s important to note that Miami is among the top destinations from Panama, with 150,000 passengers recorded in 2023. Additionally, the Miami International Airport (MIA) serves as a significant gateway, with 866,771 passengers traveling between MIA and PTY in 2023.

The U.S. Commercial Service Panama office is organizing two events to promote the United States as a top destination among Panamanians. The first event will be in June and will highlight the 17 destinations served by Copa Airlines from Panama to the U.S.  The second event is Discover America Day in August, where various destinations will come to Panama and Colombia to promote themselves to the local travel and tourism industries.

If you are interested in the tourism sector in Panama or any of these events, contact your local U.S. Commercial Service office in the U.S. or contact Commercial Specialist Fabiana Ortega in Panama by email at Fabiana.Ortega@trade.gov.