Air Panama Reconnects Families: Powerful New David to San José Flights Restore Hope for Travelers

Published on December 24, 2025

Imagine the joy of a grandmother holding her grandchild without a day-long bus journey. Picture the relief of a business owner reaching a client in minutes instead of hours. These dreams are becoming a reality for the people of Chiriquí and San José. Air Panama is bringing back the wings of connection. They are restoring a bridge of hope between two vibrant cultures. This is not just about planes; it is about human hearts beating in sync across a border.

A New Chapter for Tourism

Air Panama is officially evaluating the return of the David to San José route. This major announcement signals a bright future for regional travel. The airline plans to start these flights in the first half of 2026. This move will transform how tourists experience the lush landscapes of Panama and Costa Rica. Travelers will soon skip the long trek through Panama City. They will fly directly into the heart of the Chiriquí highlands.

Powerful Fleet Upgrades

The airline is ready for this ambitious expansion. In late 2025, Air Panama added two Dash 8 Q400 aircraft to its fleet. These planes are fast and reliable. Each aircraft can carry 78 passengers in comfort. According to the airline’s leadership, these planes offer the efficiency needed for regional growth. Currently, the airline operates six sturdy aircraft. This fleet includes both the new Dash 8 Q400s and four Fokker 50s.

Strategic Government Alignment

The Panamanian government focuses heavily on decentralizing tourism. The Tourism Authority of Panama (ATP) promotes Chiriquí as a world-class destination. This new flight path aligns perfectly with those national goals. By linking David directly to San José, Panama opens its western doors to the world. Official government data suggests that easier access leads to longer visitor stays. More stays mean more revenue for local mountain lodges and coffee farms.

A Boost for Local Economies

The impact on the tourism industry will be massive. San José is a major international hub. Tourists arriving in Costa Rica can now hop over to David easily. They can explore the “Lost and Found” wonders of the cloud forests. Local hotels and tour guides in Boquete are preparing for a surge. This flight route removes the physical barriers to adventure. It makes the rugged beauty of the Volcán Barú accessible to everyone.

Filling the Service Gap

CEO Eduardo Stagg Vallarino shared the company’s vision for the future. He stated that the airline focuses on real business opportunities. He noted that they avoid routes that are already too crowded. Instead, they look for gaps where people truly need service. He explained that the company responds directly to market demand. The airline wants to provide a service that makes sense for the community.

Strengthening Regional Ties

This route reactivation is a win for regional integration. It turns David into a strategic gateway for Central America. Travelers from San José will find a direct path to Panama’s agricultural heartland. This promotes “multi-destination” tourism. A visitor can enjoy a city break in San José and a nature retreat in Chiriquí. This synergy creates a stronger tourism product for the entire region.

Current Flight Success

Air Panama is already a leader in domestic travel. They currently serve Panama City, David, and Chitré. They also fly to the stunning beaches of Bocas del Toro and Changuinola. The airline has also seen a rise in private charter requests. This success gives them the confidence to go international again. The 2026 plan is a natural step in their steady growth.

A Future Full of Smiles

As the first half of 2026 nears, the excitement in the air is palpable. This flight is a promise of easier visits and shared laughter. It represents a future where the border is a bridge, not a wall. We look forward to the day the first flight lands in David from San José. On that day, the distance between friends will finally disappear. Tourism will flourish, but the human bond will be the greatest victory of all.