Copa Airlines to Launch New Panama City-San Diego Service
Starting 25 June 2025, San Diego will become a vibrant hub connecting Southern California to the heart of Latin America and the Caribbean.
Copa Airlines has announced a new non-stop service to Panama City, marking a further expansion of their Americas network.
Copa Airlines’ decision to launch this service underscores their commitment to strengthening connections between the United States and the diverse regions south of the border.
San Diego will become their 17th U.S. destination, solidifying their position as a key player in intercontinental travel.
San Diego: ‘America’s Finest City’
For San Diego, known as “America’s Finest City,” this means enhanced access to a vast network of destinations. Connections to South America, serene Caribbean islands, and the vibrant cultures of Central America, will be accessible through airline’s Hub of the Americas® in Panama City.
Pedro Heilbron, CEO of Copa Airlines offers comment on the new network addition. “The launch of this new route strengthens our destination network. It expands travel options for our passengers.”
“With this new addition, we enhance connectivity between Southern California and Central America, South America, and the Caribbean, fostering tourism and commercial exchange across the continent.”
Passengers will enjoy convenient, non-stop flights to Panama City, with onward connections to 86 destinations in 32 countries.
Route Benefits
Increased Tourism and Business Opportunities: This route will boost tourism, allowing more travelers to experience the beauty and attractions of San Diego. It will also facilitate business travel, fostering economic growth between the regions.
Enhanced Access to San Diego’s Attractions: San Diego, renowned for its stunning beaches like Coronado Beach, the picturesque La Jolla Cove, and world-class attractions like the San Diego Zoo, will become even more accessible to international visitors.
Convenient Flight Schedule: Copa Airlines will operate four weekly flights on Mondays, Wednesdays, Fridays, and Sundays.
Flights will depart from Panama City at 1:16 p.m. (local time) and arrive in San Diego at 6:15 p.m. (local time). Return flights will depart at 8:58 p.m. (local time) and arrive in Panama City at 5:20 a.m. (local time).

A Warm Welcome from San Diego
Kimberly Becker, President and CEO of the San Diego County Regional Airport Authority, expressed excitement about the new partnership. “We are thrilled to welcome Copa Airlines to San Diego International Airport and celebrate this exciting new nonstop service to Panama City,” she stated.
“This route will boost opportunities for business and leisure travel to Central and South America like never before.”
Conclusion
Copa Airlines’ Hub of the Americas® at Tocumen International Airport in Panama City is a key advantage for travelers. It offers efficient connections and a seamless travel experience, making it easy to reach a wide range of destinations.
The arrival of Copa Airlines in America’s Finest City marks a significant milestone in connecting Southern California to the vibrant cultures and economies of Latin America and the Caribbean.
This new route promises to enhance travel experiences, boost tourism, and foster business growth, creating a win-win situation for both regions.

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