Case Study
With WTCSD support, SAN launched direct flight to Panama via Copa Airlines
ServiceIntelligence/Research
ServiceMarketing/Visibility
ServiceExport/Logistics Consulting
ServiceStrategic Partnerships
JUNE 2025
Copa Airlines is Panama’s flag carrier and a prominent airline in Latin America. A Star Alliance member, it operates an extensive network of flights, connecting destinations across North, Central, and South America, as well as the Caribbean.
Part of an effort to expand access to these destinations, San Diego’s new direct flight promises increased connectivity to Panama, one of California’s top emerging trade partners, for more than 500 passengers each day.
PARTNERS
THE CHALLENGE
San Diego International Airport (SAN) had identified Central and South America as a critical area of the world requiring direct air service due to its potential for bi-directional tourism and emerging business demand. Copa, a leading Latin American airline, was targeted by SAN early on as an air carrier with the right network and aircraft to make a linkage to this world region possible.
In its review of market opportunities, Copa needed reliable data to support its internal business case of demand for the route and assess its viability. In particular, Copa needed assistance in quantifying business demand to and from the San Diego region.
WTCSD SOLUTION AND SUPPORT PROVIDED
In 2015 and 2019, SAN, EDC, and World Trade Center San Diego (WTCSD) hosted VIP luncheons with dozens of companies from the regional business community to discuss demand and opportunities for connectivity to the Latin American market.
Then, in 2021 and 2023, SAN, EDC, and WTCSD rallied key business leaders and stakeholders with ties to Latin America to advocate for expanded air connectivity, resulting in approximately 50 letters of support.
Meanwhile, WTCSD provided critical data to SAN to support outreach efforts in Latin America and coordinated company visits to introduce airline leadership to San Diego executives.
Finally in 2025, along with SAN, EDC, and WTCSD hosted a Panama delegation in San Diego, enabling Copa Airlines representatives to engage directly with potential business partners, such as Qualcomm, the Port of San Diego, WD-40, among others, strengthening the case for a new direct flight.
VALUE DERIVED
Copa Airlines launched a new direct flight between San Diego and Panama City, with four weekly flights, in June 2025.
In anticipation of the flight, Copa Airlines worked with SAN, EDC, and WTCSD to deepen connections with the San Diego business community, presenting to EDC’s 90-person board of directors and hosting a booth at WTCSD’s MetroConnect Grand Prize PitchFest.
This expansion of nonstop air service will continue to strengthen San Diego’s access to the Panama market and provide additional connectivity to other major markets and travel destinations in Central and South America.
Image courtesy of San Diego International Airport
“Copa Airlines’ new direct flight from San Diego to Panama City marks a long-awaited connection between our complementary markets. Thanks to EDC and World Trade Center San Diego’s support and data-driven advocacy, this route strengthens San Diego’s ties to Central and South America, opening doors for businesses and creating exciting new opportunities for regional growth.”
—Kim Becker, President & CEO, San Diego County Regional Airport Authority
Connect with San Diego International Airport:
Connect with Copa Airlines:
- Website: CopaAir.com
- Social media: LinkedIn