Panama aftershocks force runway checks and disrupt Copa operations

Following an earthquake in Panama, Tocumen International Airport has repeatedly suspended takeoffs and landings to conduct mandatory inspections of runways and airport facilities after each aftershock. These successive safety closures have triggered prolonged delays, flight cancellations, and schedule adjustments across Copa Airlines' network, severely affecting traffic at the Hub of the Americas.

In response to these operational disruptions, Copa Airlines expanded its commercial flexibility policy to encompass flights scheduled between October 9 and 14, adding four days to the initial plan. Passengers holding tickets issued through October 9 across any company route may reschedule their itineraries through October 31 without change fees or fare differences. Customers may also retain ticket credit or request full refunds, including for non-refundable fares.

While coordinating hotel accommodations subject to availability and seeking alternative rebooking options on other carriers, Copa Airlines indicated that operations will normalize as seismic events subside. The airport continues to halt flight movements whenever a new tremor is detected to ensure runway integrity before clearing aircraft for departure or arrival.