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Panama Tocumen Airport PTY Airport Traveler Guide

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PTY Airport Insights & Guide

Key PTY Airport Topics:

Getting to Know PTY Airport

Welcome to Panama Tocumen Airport, not only the largest in Central America but also home to the region's only airport rainforest. As Copa Airlines' main hub, PTY connects travelers to the Americas and beyond, offering a unique blend of natural beauty and modern amenities. Our concise guide provides essential information, from flight updates to dining and shopping, ensuring a smooth journey through PTY. For more airport insights, visit our Comprehensive Airport Guide on iFly.

WATCH VIDEO: Experience the arrivals at Panama City Tocumen International Airport's brand new Terminal 2:

PTY Airport has two main terminals: North Terminal and South Terminal. The North Terminal has 26 gates, while the South Terminal has 12 gates. Major airlines such as Copa Airlines, United Airlines, and Delta Airlines use both terminals for their departures and arrivals.

Passengers can easily navigate between the terminals by using the free shuttle service that runs every 15 minutes. The shuttle service is available 24/7 and can be found outside the arrivals area of both terminals.

Inside the terminals, passengers can find a variety of food options, duty-free shops, and other services such as currency exchange and ATMs. The airport also offers free Wi-Fi throughout the terminals.

Use our interactive airport map to locate food, services, and airline departure gates.

Connecting Between Terminals

The airport has one main terminal building with two levels. The ground level is for arrivals and the upper level is for departures. There is no need to transfer between terminals as all gates and services are located within the same building. However, if you need to move between the levels, there are escalators and elevators available. The walk time between the furthest gates is approximately 15 minutes, but there are also moving walkways to assist with the journey.

Tips from PTY Frequent Flyers

To help make your experience at Panama Tocumen Airport as smooth and enjoyable as possible, we’ve gathered the best advice and tips from PTY-based frequent travelers, flight attendants, pilots, and airport staff. Their first-hand insights are sure to provide you with valuable guidance. Here’s what they have to say:

Navigating the Terminals

"PTY's terminals can be a bit overwhelming at first, but once you know the layout, it's a breeze. I always use the free shuttle service between the North and South terminals. It runs every 15 minutes and saves a lot of walking time." — Juan C., Panama City, Panama, December 2023

"For a quick transfer, stick to the moving walkways. They make the 15-minute walk between the furthest gates much more manageable, especially if you're in a hurry." — Maria G., San Miguelito, Panama, March 2024

Getting To/From the City

"If you're traveling light, the Metrobus is a great option for getting into the city. It's budget-friendly and fairly quick, but make sure you have your fare ready in advance to avoid any delays." — Ricardo M., Tocumen, Panama, January 2024

"Taxis are a convenient option, but always confirm the fare before starting your ride to avoid any surprises. Most drivers are friendly and can give you great tips about the city." — Ana L., Chepo, Panama, June 2024

Parking

"For long trips, I recommend the off-airport parking lots. They usually offer shuttle services to the terminal and can save you some money compared to the on-site options." — Carlos D., Arraiján, Panama, February 2024

"The cell phone waiting area is perfect for picking up passengers. It's free and lets you avoid the hassle of circling around the terminal." — Rosa T., La Chorrera, Panama, April 2024

Inside the Airport

"For a taste of local cuisine, La Pausa in Terminal 1 is my go-to spot. It's a bit pricier than fast food, but the Panamanian dishes are worth it." — Luis F., Chilibre, Panama, May 2024

"If you have time to shop, don't miss the Artisan Market. It's a great place to pick up authentic Panamanian crafts and souvenirs." — Sofia P., San Miguelito, Panama, July 2024

Avoiding Delays and Stress

"Always keep an eye on the flight displays for real-time updates. They are located throughout the terminal and can save you from missing any last-minute gate changes." — Javier S., Tocumen, Panama, September 2024

"I recommend signing up for your airline's mobile alerts. They keep you informed about any delays or changes, so you can relax in the lounge without constantly checking the boards." — Carmen R., Panama City, Panama, November 2024

iFly Tip: Explore the convenience of airline mobile app check-in to save time.

Picking Up and Dropping Off Passengers

At PTY, passengers can be picked up and dropped off at the curbside of the terminal buildings. However, there are restrictions on curbside parking, and vehicles are not allowed to wait or park for more than a few minutes. This is to ensure smooth traffic flow and avoid congestion at the terminal entrances.

For those who need to wait for arriving passengers, there are designated cell-phone waiting areas located near the airport. These areas are free of charge and provide a convenient place for drivers to wait until their passengers are ready to be picked up. Once the passengers have collected their luggage and are ready to be picked up, the driver can proceed to the curbside for a quick and hassle-free pick-up.

Parking Facilities & Options

If you're flying out of PTY Airport, you'll find several parking options available to you. The airport has both covered and uncovered parking garages located in front of the terminal building, as well as an outdoor lot for long-term parking.

For those who are waiting to pick up arriving passengers, there is a cell phone waiting area located just outside the airport's entrance. This area allows drivers to wait in their cars until their passengers are ready to be picked up, without having to pay for parking.

Handicapped parking is available in all of the airport's parking facilities, with designated spots located near the entrances to the terminal building.

If you're looking for a more economical parking option, there are several off-airport parking lots located near the airport. These lots offer shuttle service to and from the terminal building, and can often be reserved in advance to guarantee a spot.

Transportation Options

The airport offers a variety of ground transportation options for travelers:

  • Car Rentals: Major car rental providers such as Avis, Budget, Hertz, and National have facilities located at the airport. Visitors can easily rent a car and explore the city on their own. It is advisable to book in advance, especially during peak travel times, to ensure availability.
  • Taxis: Taxi services are available at the airport with a drop-off area located outside the terminal building. Fares are regulated by the government and are based on a metered system. Visitors should keep in mind that there is an additional charge for luggage and tolls. The average fare to the city center is approximately USD 30.
  • Ride-Share Services: Shared ride services offer door-to-door transportation to and from the airport. Pickup areas are located outside the terminal building, and visitors should expect to share the ride with other passengers. It is important to note that there may be restrictions on the number of passengers and luggage allowed.
  • Airport Shuttles: Airport shuttles provide transportation to and from the airport and hotels in the area. Pickup areas are located outside the terminal building, and fares vary depending on the destination. Booking in advance is recommended to secure your spot, especially during busy periods.
  • Public Transportation: The airport is connected to the city's bus system, providing an affordable option for travelers. The bus stop is located outside the terminal building, and fares are typically very reasonable. The Metrobus system operates routes to various destinations in the city, with tickets available for purchase at the airport or directly from the bus driver.

iFly Tip: Avoid travel stress by checking the baggage cutoff times before you head to the airport.

Airport Hotels

Looking for a comfortable stay near the airport? We have got you covered. Our comprehensive list of airport hotels offers a range of options to suit every traveler's needs. From luxury accommodations like the Crowne Plaza Airport, an IHG Hotel, to budget-friendly options like the Express Inn PTY Aeropuerto Internacional Panama, there's something for everyone. Most of these hotels offer complimentary shuttle services to and from the airport, ensuring a seamless journey for guests. Explore our list of Tocumen Airport Hotels to find the perfect base for your travels.

Dining, Shopping & Enjoying the Airport

If you're looking for a bite to eat or some last-minute shopping before your flight at Panama Tocumen Airport, you're in luck. The airport offers a variety of dining and shopping options to suit any taste or budget.

For a quick snack or coffee, head to Starbucks or Dunkin' Donuts, both located in the public area of Terminal 1. If you have more time to spare, check out La Pausa, a sit-down restaurant serving up delicious Panamanian cuisine. You can find it in the airside area of Terminal 1.

As for shopping, there are plenty of options to choose from. If you're looking for duty-free deals, stop by the Dufry store in the airside area of Terminal 1. For souvenirs and gifts, check out the Panama Hat Company or the Artisan Market, both located in the public area of Terminal 1.

The locations of all food, shops, and services at Panama City Airport can be found using iFly's interactive map.

Passenger Services

  • Free Wi-Fi: Panama Tocumen Airport provides complimentary Wi-Fi access throughout the terminal, ensuring travelers can stay connected during their time at the airport.
  • Lost and Found: If you misplace an item during your journey, the lost and found office is available for your convenience.
  • Special-Needs Services: The airport offers wheelchair assistance, accessible restrooms, and other services for passengers with special needs. It’s recommended to notify your airline in advance if you require any assistance.
  • Children's Play Area: To keep young travelers entertained, Panama Tocumen Airport features designated children's areas where kids can play and have fun. Family restrooms are also available for parents traveling with infants.
  • ATM: ATMs are available throughout the airport, providing access to banking services while you’re at the airport.
  • Medical Center: In case of a medical emergency, the airport has a medical center with trained medical staff equipped to handle a range of medical emergencies, from minor injuries to more serious conditions.
  • Airport Lounges: Panama Tocumen Airport features several lounges, including the Copa Club and Tocumen Royal Saloon. These lounges offer amenities such as complimentary Wi-Fi, beverages, snacks, and comfortable seating areas to relax before your flight. Some lounges also provide workstations, shower facilities, and quiet spaces for a more comfortable experience.

Flight Status Info

As an air traveler, it's important to stay updated on the status of your flight departure, especially if there are any delays, cancelations, or gate changes. Luckily, there are several ways to get flight status information at Metropolitan Oakland Airport.

One of the easiest ways to check your flight status is by using the in-airport flight displays (FIDS) located throughout the terminal. These displays provide real-time updates on flight departures, delays, and gate information. Simply locate your flight on the display and check the status.

Another convenient way to stay informed is by using your airline's mobile phone app. Most airlines offer apps that allow you to check flight status, receive alerts about delays or cancelations, and even change your seat or upgrade your ticket. You can also sign up for text, email, or push notifications to receive updates directly to your phone.

Lastly, passengers can check the status of their flight departure at Metropolitan Oakland Airport by visiting the flight departures page on ifly.com, which provides real-time updates on flight departures, delays, and gate information.

iFly Tip: Stay prepared for security checks with our carry-on baggage guidelines.

Airport Facts & Stats

  • Location: Panama Tocumen Airport (PTY) is located in Panama City, Panama.
  • Terminals: The airport features two terminals, Terminal 1 and Terminal 2, which are connected by a pedestrian bridge.
  • Airlines Served: Major airlines serving PTY include Copa Airlines, United Airlines, and American Airlines. For a full list of airlines, visit the PTY Airlines Served page.
  • Passenger Traffic: Panama Tocumen Airport handles approximately 40,000 passengers daily.
  • Daily Flights: The airport sees around 400 daily flights.
  • Top Destinations: The most popular destinations served from PTY are Miami, Bogota, San Jose, Mexico City, and Madrid.
  • Hub Status: Panama Tocumen Airport is a hub for Copa Airlines and Wingo.

Airport History

Panama City Airport, located in Panama City, Panama, is the largest and busiest airport in Central America. It serves as a hub for Copa Airlines and is a focus city for several other airlines.

Here are some significant events in the airport's history:

  • 1947 - The airport was built by the United States as a military airbase during World War II.
  • 1949 - The airport was officially opened for commercial flights.
  • 1963 - A new terminal building was constructed to accommodate the increasing number of passengers.
  • 1978 - The airport was renamed to Tocumen International Airport.
  • 2006 - A major expansion project was completed, which included the construction of a new terminal building and runway.
  • 2019 - The airport handled over 16 million passengers, making it the busiest airport in Central America.

Airport Contact Information

For more information about Tocumen International Airport, please refer to the following contact details:

Note that the contact information provided here is subject to change by the airport operator(s).

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Panama Tocumen Airport Q&A

The airport has two main terminals: the North Terminal with 26 gates and the South Terminal with 12 gates.
A free shuttle service runs every 15 minutes, 24/7, between the terminals and can be found outside the arrivals area.
You can take the Metrobus, which is budget-friendly, or opt for taxis for a quicker trip. Confirm taxi fares before starting your journey.
The airport features a unique rainforest, which is a great place to explore during long layovers.
There are covered and uncovered parking garages, an outdoor lot for long-term parking, and a free cell phone waiting area for pickups.
La Pausa offers delicious local dishes and is located in the airside area of Terminal 1.
The airport has duty-free shops, and for local souvenirs, the Artisan Market offers authentic Panamanian crafts.
The airport provides wheelchair assistance, accessible restrooms, and other services. It is advisable to notify your airline in advance.
You can use the in-airport flight displays, your airline's mobile app, or visit the iFly website for real-time updates.
Yes, the Copa Club and Tocumen Royal Saloon lounges offer amenities such as Wi-Fi, snacks, and comfortable seating areas.

Find more help here for your journey through the airport