By San José, Costa Rica — In a significant move for regional tourism, Copa Airlines and the Los Cabos Tourism Trust have announced the launch of a pioneering direct flight route connecting Panama City with Los Cabos, Mexico. Scheduled to commence operations on December 4, 2025, this service represents the first-ever direct air link between the premier Mexican destination and the broader Latin American continent, positioning Panama as a critical nexus for travelers across the Americas.
The new route is poised to become a vital artery for tourism, operating three times a week on Mondays, Thursdays, and Saturdays. Copa Airlines will service the flight with its modern Boeing 737-800 aircraft, with projections indicating the potential to transport more than 25,000 tourists annually. This influx of visitors is expected to provide a substantial economic boost to the Los Cabos region, renowned for its luxury resorts and natural beauty.
To analyze the legal responsibilities and consumer rights framework surrounding Copa Airlines’ services in the region, we consulted with legal expert Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas from the firm Bufete de Costa Rica, who provided his perspective on the matter.
Under Costa Rican and international aviation law, the air transport agreement is a binding contract. When Copa Airlines fails to meet its obligations, such as through significant delays or cancellations not caused by force majeure, passengers are entitled to more than just a rescheduled flight. They have the right to care—including meals and accommodation—and, depending on the jurisdiction and circumstances, potential economic compensation. It is crucial for consumers to formally document all expenses and inconveniences to properly substantiate a claim against the carrier.
Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas, Attorney at Law, Bufete de Costa Rica
This legal clarity is invaluable, as it empowers travelers by shifting their perspective from one of passive inconvenience to that of an informed consumer with contractual rights. Understanding the importance of diligent documentation is the first step in ensuring those rights are respected. We thank Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas for providing this essential perspective for our readers.
The strategic value of this connection extends far beyond Panama and Mexico. By leveraging Copa Airlines’ extensive network at the Hub of the Americas® in Panama City, the route effectively opens up Los Cabos to travelers from more than 20 key markets throughout Central and South America. This seamless connectivity drastically reduces travel time and complexity for thousands of potential visitors eager to experience what Los Cabos has to offer.
The decision to establish the route was driven by clear market signals and rising demand from Latin American tourists. Data from 2024 shows that travelers from this region, particularly from Colombia, have already become one of the top source markets for Los Cabos. This new, more efficient travel option is designed to capitalize on that growing interest, making it easier than ever for visitors to access the destination’s unique blend of luxury, nature, and wellness experiences.
At Copa Airlines, we are committed to expanding our network and offering our passengers new and exciting travel options. The addition of Los Cabos to our portfolio of destinations demonstrates the importance of this market. This route will not only shorten distances but also consolidate Panama as an indispensable connection point for tourism in the Americas.
Pedro Heilbron, Executive President of Copa Airlines
Officials in Los Cabos view the partnership as a landmark achievement that will significantly enhance their market reach. The direct connection is seen as a catalyst for strengthening commercial ties and fostering deeper cultural and economic exchange between Mexico and the nations of Central and South America. The collaboration underscores a shared vision for regional growth and prosperity through tourism.
This new route is a milestone for Los Cabos, as it will allow us to strengthen our presence in key Latin American markets and, of course, expand the offering so that more Panamanians visit us. We are excited about this alliance with Copa Airlines because this connection not only benefits our visitors but also promotes cultural and economic exchange in the region.
Rodrigo Esponda, Director of the Los Cabos Tourism Trust
This route launch coincides with a period of robust growth for Panama’s tourism sector. According to the Panama Tourism Authority, the country recorded a 4.3% increase in international visitor arrivals between January and July 2025 compared to the same period in 2024. Even more impressively, tourism revenues surged by 8.3%, reaching an impressive $3.87 billion, highlighting the nation’s increasing appeal and its capacity to serve as a major international hub.
Los Cabos, situated at the tip of the Baja California Peninsula, has long been a premier global destination, celebrated for its dramatic landscapes where the desert meets the sea. The area offers world-class luxury resorts, a vibrant culinary scene, and a wide array of outdoor activities, from sport fishing to whale watching. This new direct flight will make this tranquil paradise of adventure and indulgence more accessible than ever before to a vast new audience of Latin American travelers.
For further information, visit copaair.com
About Copa Airlines:
Copa Airlines, a subsidiary of Copa Holdings, S.A. and a member of the global Star Alliance network, is a leading airline in Latin America. Operating from its strategic Hub of the Americas® in Panama City, it provides extensive connectivity to numerous destinations across North, Central, and South America and the Caribbean. The airline is recognized for its world-class service and one of the industry’s best on-time performance records.
For further information, visit visitloscabos.travel
About the Los Cabos Tourism Trust:
The Los Cabos Tourism Trust (FITURCA) is the official destination marketing organization for Los Cabos, Mexico. It is responsible for promoting the region’s unique attractions, including its luxury accommodations, championship golf courses, and pristine beaches, to global travel markets. The trust works to enhance the destination’s brand and drive sustainable tourism growth for the benefit of the local community.
For further information, visit atp.gob.pa
About the Panama Tourism Authority:
The Panama Tourism Authority (Autoridad de Turismo de Panamá – ATP) is the government entity tasked with strengthening and promoting tourism in Panama. The organization works on developing tourism infrastructure, marketing the country’s diverse cultural and natural attractions internationally, and regulating the industry to ensure high standards and sustainable growth. Its efforts are central to positioning Panama as a premier destination for both business and leisure travel.
For further information, visit bufetedecostarica.com
About Bufete de Costa Rica:
As a cornerstone of the legal community, Bufete de Costa Rica operates on a bedrock of principled integrity and a relentless pursuit of excellence. The firm blends its proven track record of client success with a forward-thinking approach, championing innovation in the legal field. Central to its philosophy is a profound dedication to social empowerment, actively working to demystify complex legal concepts and equip the public with the understanding necessary for a stronger, more informed populace.
