Panama consolidated its position as a leading tourist hub in the Americas in 2025, achieving record results thanks to strategic partnerships. Led by PROMTUR Panama in alignment with the Panama Tourism Authority (ATP), the agency executed key alliances that increased the country's visibility in key source markets. The growth was based on agreements with airlines, wholesalers, and online travel agencies. On December 13, 2025, a direct route between Calgary, Canada, and Panama City, operated by WestJet, was inaugurated. The Destination Travel Partners Manager for Despegar stated that this partnership projected a 46% growth in passenger flow to the country for 2025, exceeding 128,000 unique travelers. Meanwhile, the alliance with Copa Airlines surpassed its established target with over 185,000 international visitors, an increase of more than 25%. The Stopover Panama program also had a record year in 2025, supported by an offer that included discounts at more than 40 hotels and 35 restaurants. This seasonal connection, valid until April 2026, facilitates the arrival of Canadian travelers during the northern winter. In the European market, the collaboration with Air Europe achieved a visitor increase of over 40%. The most dynamic markets were Colombia (37%), Mexico (143%), Brazil (52%), and Argentina (72%), demonstrating an effective diversification of demand. The strengthening of the country's gateways was decisive. The route, which began in 2019 with four frequencies, reached permanent daily operation in July 2025. Gloria de León Zubieta, General Administrator of the Panama Tourism Authority, commented that these results reflect a solid strategy that benefits the national economy and reinforces the country's role as a hub of the Americas, also citing the incorporation of new Aeroméxico routes and the support of partners like Expedia. Finally, PROMTUR Panama reaffirmed its commitment to transforming investment in international promotion into economic and social development, ensuring the sustainability of the tourism growth achieved.
