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About PTY
Tocumen International Airport (PTY) is Panama's main international airport and the largest hub in Central America. Located 24 km east of Panama City, PTY serves as the primary hub for Copa Airlines, connecting North, Central, and South America through its strategic geographic position. The airport has two terminals: the original Terminal 1 and the new Terminal 2 (T2) which opened in 2019, significantly expanding capacity. PTY is nicknamed "The Hub of the Americas" and handles over 16 million passengers annually.
Hub For
Terminals
Terminal 1
The original and main terminal handling most Copa Airlines flights and several international carriers. Features extensive duty-free shopping and the main Copa Club lounge.
Terminal 2
The new terminal opened in April 2019, adding 20 gates and modern facilities. Connected to Terminal 1 by indoor walkway. Handles overflow Copa flights and select international airlines.
Minimum Connection Times (MCT)
Airlines at PTY
Copa Airlines
Main Terminal Hub
Aeromexico
Air Europa
Air France
American Airlines
Terminal 1
Avianca
Main Terminal
BoA
Cayman Airways
Showing 8 of 18 airlines. View all airlines →
Getting There & Away
Metro Line 2 (to city), taxis, ride-hailing (Uber), public buses, hotel shuttles
Taxi
$30-35
30-50 min to city center
Public Transport
$1-2
60-80 min to city center
Popular Destinations
Parking at PTY
Multi-story parking at Terminal 1. Surface parking at Terminal 2....
Terminal 1 Multi-Story
Terminal 2 Surface Parking
Long-Term Economy
Airport Lounges
Copa Club
Main Terminal
Copa Airlines' flagship lounge with Panamanian-inspired design. Offers hot buffet with local and international dishes, full bar, shower suites, quiet rest area, and panoramic runway views.
Copa Club Terminal 2
Terminal 1
The newer Copa Club in Terminal 2 with modern design, buffet, bar, and shower facilities. Smaller than the T1 lounge but less crowded.
VIP Lounge Tocumen
Main Terminal
Independent lounge accessible to all passengers in Terminal 1. Offers a light buffet, beverages including cocktails, and comfortable seating.
Where to Stay
Connected Hotels
Crowne Plaza Panama Airport
Connected to Terminal 1 via covered walkway
The only hotel directly connected to the airport terminal. Modern rooms, restaurant, pool, and fitness center. Day rooms available.
Nearby Hotels
Wyndham Panama Albrook Mall
Albrook area, 25 minutes from airport
Located next to the massive Albrook Mall and Albrook bus terminal. Good for city exploration.
Food & Dining
Burger King
Fast Food/American
Main Terminal (Airside)
Standard BK menu, open 24/7. Convenient for late-night Copa connections.
24/7
Los Anos Locos
Panamanian/Latin
Main Terminal (Airside)
Popular Panamanian chain serving local favorites like sancocho soup, arroz con pollo, patacones, and fresh ceviche.
6:00 AM - 11:00 PM
Starbucks
Cafe/Coffee
Terminal 1 (Airside)
Full Starbucks menu including Panamanian Geisha coffee (when available). Reliable for coffee and snacks.
5:00 AM - 10:00 PM
Car Rental
Budget
Arrivals Hall, Terminal 1
Counter in T1 arrivals. Roads to/from the city are good but driving in Panama City traffic requires patience.
Hertz
Arrivals Hall, Terminal 1
Full range of vehicles. Consider renting for day trips to the Panama Canal or Portobelo.
Avis
Arrivals Hall, Terminal 1
Reliable international chain. Prices in USD — no currency conversion needed.
What to Do During a Layover
Inside the Airport
Duty-Free Shopping Spree
PTY has some of the best duty-free shopping in the Americas with competitive prices on liquor, perfume, electronics, and luxury goods.
Explore the City
These activities require leaving the airport. Make sure you have valid visa and enough time before your next flight.
Casco Viejo (Old Quarter)
Wander through Panama City's UNESCO World Heritage colonial quarter. Beautiful plazas, churches, rooftop bars, and restaurants.
Panama Canal Miraflores Locks
Visit the Miraflores Locks visitor center to watch massive ships transit the Panama Canal. Features a museum, observation deck, and IMAX theater. About 40 minutes from the airport.
Practical Information
WiFi & Connectivity
- Free WiFi: Yes (Unlimited)
- Speed Rating: ●●●○○
- Power Outlets: Type A/B (US-style), USB charging stations
- SIM Cards: Available for purchase
Services
- Left Luggage: $5-10/day
- Showers: Free in Copa Club
- Medical Services: Available
- Prayer Rooms: Available
Family Facilities
- Children's Play Areas
- Nursing Rooms
- Family Restrooms
Money & Currency
- Currency: US Dollar (USD) / Panamanian Balboa (PAB)
- Exchange: Exchange counters in arrivals of both terminals
- Hours: 6:00 AM - 10:00 PM
Panama uses the US Dollar as official currency. No need to exchange if you carry USD. ATMs dispense USD.
Smoking Areas
Outdoor areas outside terminal entrances only
Insider Tips
Copa Airlines connects to virtually every major city in the Americas from PTY, making it a common layover point. The duty-free shopping is excellent and some of the cheapest in the region. Panama uses the US Dollar so no currency exchange needed for US travelers.
Facilities & Contact
Airport Facilities
Free Wi-Fi, chapel, duty-free shopping (extensive), currency exchange, medical services, children play area, left luggage, SIM card kiosks, VIP lounges, food courts, spa, beauty salon
Official Website
Phone
+507-238-2700