Copa Airlines {NYSE: CPA}, a subsidiary of Copa Holdings, S.A. and a member of the Star Alliance global airline network, announces the start of operations, in June of this year, to three new destinations: Tulum, Mexico, Florianopolis in Brazil, and Raleigh-Durham in North Carolina, United States. With the addition of these routes, Copa Airlines expands its network to 85 destinations in 32 countries across Central, South, and North America, and the Caribbean.
“We remain steadfast in our purpose to shorten distances and facilitate connections, allowing Panama to continue being the bridge that unites thousands of people throughout the continent while contributing to the economic development of the communities where we operate. This strategic expansion not only promotes cultural exchange in the region but also encourages and deepens tourism and business ties in the United States, Mexico, and Brazil. It also opens up the opportunity for more tourists to enjoy the wonders of Panama through the Panama Stopover program,” expressed Pedro Heilbron, CEO of Copa Airlines.
Copa strengthens its offering in North America with the addition of Raleigh-Durham, the gateway to the “Research Triangle” of North Carolina, a region known for its proximity to prestigious higher education centers and their position as a hub for innovation and technology. Additionally, it boasts a rich culinary scene, access to the coast, and cultural spaces, including botanical gardens.
This new route joins the 15 destinations served by the airline in the United States and will start operations on June 21, 2024, with four weekly frequencies on Mondays, Wednesdays, Fridays, and Sundays, departing at 8:56 a.m. from Panama (local time) and arriving at Raleigh-Durham International Airport (RDU) at 2:28 p.m. (local time). The return flight will depart on the same days from Raleigh-Durham at 4:20 p.m., reaching Panama City at 7:46 p.m. (local time).
Starting on June 26, Copa Airlines will connect the enchanting city of Tulum, located in the Mexican state of Quintana Roo, with the Hub of the Americas® in Panama. This tourist destination, situated in the heart of the Riviera Maya, on the shores of the Caribbean Sea, is renowned for its vibrant nightlife, authentic Mexican cuisine, and proximity to iconic beaches such as Playa del Carmen, Xcaret, Akumal, and Xel-há. In addition to its impressive attractions, such as the Mayan Ruins, natural cenotes, and underground caves.
This new connection becomes the fifth destination for the airline in Mexico, joining Mexico City, Cancun, Guadalajara, and Monterrey. Copa Airlines’ flight to Tulum will operate with four weekly frequencies on Tuesdays, Wednesdays, Fridays, and Sundays, departing at 7:45 a.m. from Panama (local time) and arriving at Tulum International Airport, Felipe Carrillo Puerto, at 10:34 a.m. (local time). The return flight will depart on the same day from Tulum at 11:44 a.m., reaching Panama at 2:23 p.m. (local time).
To expand its connectivity in the important Brazilian market, starting from June 25, Copa Airlines will fly to the city of Florianopolis, the capital of the state of Santa Catarina in southern Brazil. Known as the “Island of Magic” for its more than 100 stunning beaches with crystal-clear waters and white sands, this city offers a rich culture and Azorean architecture, along with natural diversity encompassing ecotourism, trails, and natural parks. Considered one of the friendliest capitals in the country, Florianopolis is a true paradise for surfing enthusiasts.
The city of Florianopolis has become the seventh destination for the airline in Brazil. Copa Airlines’ flight to Florianopolis will initially operate with three weekly frequencies on Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Sundays. Departing at 3:23 p.m. from Panama (local time) and arriving at Hercilio Luz International Airport at 12:22 a.m. (local time). The return flight will depart from Florianopolis at 1:25 a.m., reaching Panama at 6:30 a.m. (local time) on Wednesdays, Fridays, and Mondays.
Passengers interested in traveling to or from the cities of Tulum, Florianópolis, and Raleigh-Durham can make their reservations at www.copa.com, sales offices, and the call center.
Maintaining its leadership in the region, Copa Airlines was recognized by the renowned company Cirium as the “Most Punctual Airline in Latin America in 2023,” achieving an on-time arrival rate of 89.46% and an on-time departure rate of 91.71% for the year. This recognition, placing us among the top 3 most punctual airlines globally, has been awarded by Cirium on nine occasions. (https://www.copaair.com/en-gs/news/copa-airlines-3-new-destinations-tulum-mexico-florianopolis-brazil-raleigh-durham-usa/)
