Panama’s Civil Aviation Authority has authorized Copa Airlines to operate 30 additional flights between Panama City and Toronto, Canada. The special flights aim to transport thousands of Panamanian soccer fans to the FIFA World Cup 2026 next summer.
These flights will operate exclusively between June 13 and June 28, 2026. This period covers Panama’s scheduled group stage matches in Canada. The approval followed direct diplomatic negotiations between the Panamanian and Canadian governments.
Unprecedented Fan Demand Drives Special Authorization
Copa Airlines submitted an extraordinary request to aviation regulators. The move came after historic demand for travel following Panama’s qualification for its second consecutive World Cup. The airline announced the news on social media, directly addressing the nation’s “Red Tide” fan base.
“Approved for up to 30 additional flights to Toronto to accompany the National Team at the World Cup!” the airline stated. [Translated from Spanish]
The carrier confirmed tickets for the first wave of flights will go on sale February 5. Copa Airlines also indicated it could add more frequencies if initial capacity sells out quickly. Complete itineraries and fares will be published on the airline’s official channels in the coming days.
Government Negotiations Secure Flight Access
Rafael Bárcenas, the Director General of Panama’s Civil Aviation Authority, initiated the process. On January 19, he presented a formal “Government-to-Government” request to Canadian counterparts to expand existing air frequencies. Negotiations concluded successfully last week.
This swift resolution allows copa airlines to immediately begin preparations for ticket sales. The airline publicly thanked both governments for their support in a digital statement.
“Many thanks to the governments of Canada and Panama for the support to ensure Panamanian fans can be with their National Team at the World Cup matches,” Copa Airlines expressed. [Translated from Spanish]
Interested travelers must monitor Copa Airlines’ official platforms for the presale starting Wednesday, February 5. The airline manages one of Latin America’s most extensive hub networks at Tocumen International Airport.
Toronto Prepares for Panamanian Fan Invasion
The city of Toronto is one of 16 official host cities for the 2026 tournament. It will be a key venue for Panama’s participation in the first World Cup jointly hosted by Canada, the United States, and Mexico.
Enhanced connectivity from Panama’s main hub will benefit more than just local fans. Supporters from across Central America who typically travel through Tocumen will also find easier access to matches in Canada. This initiative is part of broader infrastructure efforts, similar to recent regional airport upgrades like the utica civil project in Bocas del Toro, aimed at improving national and tourist travel.
Panama’s national team, known as “Los Canaleros,” will learn its specific group stage opponents and match dates later this year. The additional flights ensure their famous “Marea Roja” supporters will have a direct path to cheer them on. Aviation officials view this as a critical step in managing what they predict will be one of the largest international travel surges from Panama in recent history.