In celebration of Copa Airlines’ 35th anniversary at Miami International Airport, a special gate event was held featuring performances by traditional Panamanian dancers and remarks from key speakers, including representatives from the Miami-Dade Aviation Department, the Consul General of Panama, and local government officials. The event highlighted the airline’s strong and lasting connection to the Miami community. Copa Airlines’ Chief Marketing Officer, Marco Ocando, along with other airline executives, airport representatives, and distinguished local dignitaries, were in attendance. The event concluded with the departure of a MAX9 aircraft painted with a commemorative livery inspired by the wonders of Panama, with a water cannon salute as it took off, marking this historic milestone.
Copa Airlines began its Miami service on December 1, 1989. As they celebrate 35 years of operations this year, the airline operates over 50 weekly flights to and from Miami International Airport’s Terminal J to the Hub of the Americas at Tocumen International Airport in Panama City. Connecting travelers to more than 50 destinations across 32 countries in North, Central, and South America and the Caribbean, Copa Airlines offers more connectivity to and from the United States than any other hub in the region, with 16 gateways across the U.S.
“For nearly four decades, Copa Airlines has proudly served as a vital connection between the United States and Latin America, with Miami playing a pivotal role as our first U.S. gateway,” said Marco Ocando, Chief Marketing Officer, Communications and Frequent Flyer Program at Copa Airlines. “This connection has fostered cultural exchange, economic growth, and world-class travel experiences. As we celebrate this milestone, we remain dedicated to enhancing connectivity and serving South Florida’s vibrant and multicultural community.”
At its inauguration, Miami was Copa Airlines’ first U.S. destination, offering non-stop service to and from Panama City and other Latin American destinations. Known for its beautiful beaches, boating, water sports, and lively nightlife, Miami is a favored destination in South Florida. With a diverse population, including a significant Latin American community, Copa Airlines is ideally positioned to continue serving this dynamic and growing population.
“I proudly congratulate Copa Airlines for reaching its 35th anniversary of connecting Panama with Miami-Dade County,” said Miami-Dade County Mayor Daniella Levine Cava. “In those 35 years, Copa’s unwavering commitment to serving our community has led it to become Miami International Airport’s 9th busiest airline with the most flights to Panama, serving more than 800,000 passengers annually. I look forward to seeing Copa celebrating many more anniversaries in Miami-Dade County.”
Miami residents can continue benefiting from Copa’s world-class, award-winning service. Maintaining its leadership in the Latin American region, the airline was recognized by Cirium as the “Most Punctual Airline in Latin America in 2023” and has been recognized nine times during the past ten years. Achieving an impressive on-time arrival rate of 89.46%, Copa Airlines was among the top three most punctual airlines globally in 2023.
Tags: Marco Ocando, Copa Airlines, Daniella Levine Cava, Miami International Airport
