Panama’s Copa Airlines has formally begun the process to secure special flight permits to Toronto, Canada. The move directly responds to surging travel demand after the historic qualification of the Panama national football team for the 2026 FIFA World Cup. The airline announced the initiative on Monday, December 8, 2025, aiming to transport thousands of fans to support the team next summer.
Current aviation restrictions between Panama and Canada present a significant challenge. Canadian authorities only authorize one daily flight on the Panama City to Toronto route. Copa Airlines confirmed those existing seats are nearly sold out for the tournament period. Securing additional permits is now a critical priority to accommodate the expected “Red Tide” of traveling supporters.
Navigating Bilateral Air Agreements
The airline is navigating two different regulatory landscapes. While Canada’s restrictive bilateral agreement limits flights, the United States presents an easier path. Copa also plans to schedule extra flights to New York, where Panama’s team will play its final group match. These additional U.S. flights do not require special authorizations thanks to an existing Open skies agreement between the two nations.
“We are coming with more flights and attractive fares so more Panamanians can travel to cheer for our boys and bring the strength of the Red Tide from Panama to Toronto and New York,” the airline stated on its social media channels. [Translated from Spanish]
Company officials said they would soon release specific details on flight availability, frequencies, and pricing. They urged fans to monitor Copa’s official social media accounts and communication channels for updates. The airline’s proactive approach highlights the massive economic and logistical impact of Panama’s first-ever World Cup qualification.
Direct Routes and Alternative Itineraries
Copa currently operates the only direct flight between Panama City and Toronto. Flight CM470 departs daily at 6:42 p.m., arriving in Toronto at 1:13 a.m. local time. As of now, fares start from approximately $578. The airline has not yet confirmed how many extra flights it might operate if Canadian authorities grant the requested permits.
Travelers face limited options if they cannot secure a seat on Copa. Other carriers like Air Canada do not offer direct service on this route. Alternative itineraries typically involve connections through hubs like Miami with American Airlines, Atlanta with Delta, or Newark with United. Some fans may also route through El Salvador, connecting with Avianca for the final leg to Canada. This complex travel scenario underscores the importance of Copa’s permit application for Panamanian fans.
The team’s tournament schedule makes travel planning crucial. Panama will debut in the 2026 FIFA World Cup on Wednesday, June 17, 2026, against Ghana in Toronto. Its second Group L match is also in Toronto against Croatia. The final group stage match will be against England in New York. This split between Canadian and U.S. venues is why Copa is pursuing increased capacity to both countries.
Successfully obtaining these flight permits would represent a major logistical victory. It would ensure smoother travel for supporters and solidify Panama’s role as a key aviation hub for the region. The effort also reflects broader entre panam ambitions to leverage global events for economic and connectivity gains. For now, hopeful fans await news from both the airline and Canadian transport officials, dreaming of their journey to support the national team on the world’s biggest stage.