Airports for Charter Flights in Panama
Explore the aircraft used for private charter flights in Panama and find the best fit for your route, group size and luggage.
All Airports in Panama
How Charter Airports Work in Panama
In Panama, private charter flights make use of a mix of:
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Domestic airports in larger towns,
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Regional airports near tourist areas, and
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Smaller airstrips close to remote beaches, islands and lodges.
Commercial airlines focus mainly on major hubs and a limited set of domestic routes. Charter flights fill the gap by connecting Panama City with airstrips that are much closer to surf breaks, dive sites, private islands and eco-lodges.
Because of this, the airport you choose can dramatically change your travel experience:
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A well-chosen charter airport can turn a 5–7 hour road and boat journey into a short, direct flight.
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Smaller airstrips often place you within minutes of your hotel, boat dock or surf spot.
Panama Charter Flights helps you navigate these options so you can see which airports make the most sense for your itinerary.
FAQ - Destinations in Panama
Most charter flights in Panama use Marcos A. Gelabert International Airport (PAC – Albrook) in Panama City, which is dedicated to domestic and general aviation. It is separate from Tocumen International Airport (PTY), where most international airlines land.
In most cases, charter flights depart from Albrook Airport, not Tocumen. However, if you are arriving at Tocumen, we can help coordinate the ground transfer so you can continue your journey on a private charter from Albrook.
You do not need to know all the airport names in advance. When you request a quote, simply tell us your destination (for example, Santa Catalina, Coiba, Bocas del Toro, San Blas or the name of your lodge), and we will match it with the most convenient airport or airstrip for your charter flight.
No. Some small airstrips are only suitable for specific aircraft types with short takeoff and landing capabilities, while larger regional airports can handle a wider range of planes. Our team will select airports that are compatible with the aircraft used on your route.
Yes, in some cases, remote or private airstrips can be used for charter flights, as long as they meet safety and operational requirements. If your property or lodge has its own airstrip, let us know and we will evaluate whether it can be used for your charter flight.
While each airport has its own page or listing, it helps to think of them in regions when planning your trip.
Pacific Coast – Surf and Dive Airports
Along the Pacific side of Panama, charter flights typically use airports and airstrips that serve:
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Surf towns and coastal villages such as Santa Catalina,
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Gateways to Coiba National Park and nearby islands, including the Lago Bay airstrip just minutes from Santa Catalina,
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Lodges and private properties far from the main highways.
These Pacific charter airports and airstrips, especially Lago Bay for Santa Catalina and Coiba, significantly cut down travel time compared to long drives on mountain and coastal roads.
Caribbean Islands – San Blas and Bocas del Toro
On the Caribbean side, smaller airports and airstrips provide access to:
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The San Blas (Guna Yala) region, where airstrips are used as starting points for island stays and sailing trips.
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The Bocas del Toro archipelago, a major hub for surf, snorkeling and over-the-water lodges.
Choosing the right Caribbean charter airport can reduce the number of water and ground transfers you need to make after landing.
Highlands and Interior Airports
Panama’s interior and highlands are served by regional airports and small airstrips that are perfect for:
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Rural tourism and eco-lodges,
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Property, project and agricultural inspections,
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Trips to smaller towns and communities away from the main transport corridors.
A private charter flight to one of these interior airports allows you to arrive much closer to your final destination than you would using only commercial flights and buses.
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