Copa Airlines, a Star Alliance member and subsidiary of Copa Holdings, S.A., commemorates 35 years of continuous service from Miami International Airport through its Hub of the Americas® at Tocumen International Airport in Panama City.
The milestone was celebrated with a special gate event featuring traditional Panamanian dancers and remarks from key stakeholders. This included representatives from the Miami-Dade Aviation Department, the Consul General of Panama, and local government officials.
Copa Airlines’ Chief Marketing Officer Marco Ocando and other executives joined airport representatives and distinguished dignitaries to mark the occasion.
The event culminated with a Boeing 737 MAX 9 aircraft adorned in a commemorative livery celebrating Panama’s wonders. The flight received a ceremonial water cannon salute upon departure.
35 Years of Service in Miami
Launched on December 1, 1989, Copa Airlines now operates over 50 weekly flights. These operate between Miami International Airport’s Terminal J and the Hub of the Americas®.
The airline connects travelers to more than 50 destinations across 32 countries. Destinations span North, Central, and South America and the Caribbean. With 16 U.S. gateways, Copa Airlines provides unparalleled connectivity in the region.
“For nearly four decades, Copa Airlines has been a crucial link between the United States and Latin America. Miami serves as our first U.S. gateway,” said Copa Airlines’ Chief Marketing Officer Marco Ocando.
“Our mission has been to foster cultural exchange, drive economic growth, and deliver world-class travel experiences. As we celebrate this milestone, we remain committed to enhancing connectivity and serving South Florida’s vibrant, multicultural community.”
The Inaugural US Destination
Miami holds special significance as Copa Airlines’ inaugural U.S. destination. It offers direct service to Panama City and other Latin American locations. The city’s diverse population, particularly its substantial Latin American community, makes it an ideal market for the airline’s continued growth and service.
Miami-Dade County Mayor Daniella Levine Cava praised the airline’s achievement, noting, “Copa Airlines has become Miami International Airport’s 9th busiest airline.”
“It operates the most flights to Panama and serves over 800,000 passengers annually. We look forward to witnessing many more anniversaries.”
The airline continues to distinguish itself through exceptional performance. Recognized by Cirium as the “Most Punctual Airline in Latin America in 2023,” Copa Airlines has achieved this honor nine times in the past decade.
In 2023, the airline maintained an impressive 89.46% on-time arrival rate, ranking among the top three most punctual airlines globally.
About Copa Airlines
A subsidiary of Copa Holdings, Copa Airlines stands as a leading passenger and cargo carrier in Latin America. With 76 years of operation, the airline has established the Hub of the Americas® in Panama City as the continent’s premier connection center.
Utilizing a modern Boeing 737 fleet, Copa Airlines serves destinations across North, Central, and South America and the Caribbean. As a Star Alliance member, the airline offers the ConnectMiles program, enabling mile accumulation and redemption across more than 25 airlines worldwide.
About Miami International Airport (MIA)
Miami International Airport, America’s busiest airport for international freight and the second busiest for international passengers, is receiving an unprecedented investment of $9 billion in capital improvements and maintenance upgrades.
MIA offers more flights to Latin America and the Caribbean than any other U.S. airport and is also the leading economic engine for Miami-Dade County and the state of Florida. It generates business revenue of $118 billion and approximately 60 percent of all international visitors to Florida annually.
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