Copa Airlines Launches Direct Flight from Panama to Salta

Salta, Argentina – Copa Airlines launched its first direct flight from Panama to Salta on September 25, 2025. This milestone event, hosted by Governor Gustavo Sáenz, marks a significant enhancement for tourism in the region, positioning Salta as a vital air hub in northern Argentina.

The inaugural flight was celebrated at the Martín Miguel de Güemes International Airport with a ceremonial reception, featuring music from the Banda de la Policía de Salta. Also present were key figures from the tourism sector, including Romina Flamini, president of Inprotur, and Christian Rodríguez, Copa Airlines’ Regional Manager for Mercosur.

Upon arrival, passengers were welcomed with gifts and a folk dance performance, showcasing Salta’s rich cultural heritage. Several travelers noted the warmth of the greeting as a highlight of the experience.

Governor Sáenz emphasized the strategic importance of this new route, reinforcing Salta’s role as a central hub in northern Argentina. Minister of Tourism and Sports, Manuela Arancibia, pointed out that this connection opens access to over 80 destinations in the Americas, the Caribbean, and Europe without requiring a stop in Buenos Aires. She stated that this expansion “enhances both incoming tourism and commercial opportunities for our province.”

The new flight will operate three times a week, with departures from Panama City on Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Sundays at 3:14 PM local time, landing in Salta at 12:24 AM. Return flights will leave Salta on Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays at 2:01 AM, arriving in Panama at 5:30 AM.

Copa Airlines will utilize Boeing 737-800 aircraft for this route, with 16 seats in business class and 150 in economy, ensuring comfort for travelers. This addition represents a significant step forward for Salta, complementing existing international flights to Lima, Asunción, and an upcoming route to Florianópolis starting January 2026.

The launch not only enhances Salta’s international connectivity but also establishes it as a gateway to 85 cities across 32 countries, including 16 destinations in the United States, while bypassing the need for connections through Argentina’s capital.

The inaugural flight was piloted by local aviators Carlos Marenzi and Gilberto Gómez Brenes, who carried the Salta flag proudly into international skies. The event was attended by representatives from the tourism and business sectors, highlighting the collaboration across public and private sectors to bring this project to fruition.

As described by Lorena Gasser, Copa Airlines’ Interior Manager, this connectivity positions Salta on the map of America, facilitating not only outbound travel but also welcoming increased international tourism. With competitive pricing and flexible travel options, including a Stock Over feature allowing extended stops, there are broader travel opportunities for visitors.

Christian Rodríguez concluded by expressing his enthusiasm for opening this route, reinforcing the cultural and economic benefits it brings to both Salta and Tucumán, signaling a bright future ahead for regional integration.