Air Panama Eyes 2026 Return to David–San José Route with Dash 8 Q400s

December 23, 2025 at 09:26 PM•2 min read

Air Panama is addressing regional connectivity needs by considering the David–San José route reactivation in the first half of 2026, boosting Chiriquí

Key Points

1Air Panama aims to reactivate the David, Panama–San José, Costa Rica air route in the first half of 2026.
2The plan is supported by the recent addition of two 76-78 seat Dash 8 Q400 aircraft to the fleet.
3The direct service will bypass Panama City, significantly boosting Chiriquí province tourism and regional connectivity.
4CEO Eduardo Stagg Vallarino confirmed the decision hinges on evaluating market demand and business opportunities.

The Panamanian airline Air Panama is evaluating a key expansion move. It is considering reactivating the David–San José air route in 2026. This connection links David, Panama, with San José, Costa Rica.

Eduardo Stagg Vallarino, the airline’s CEO, confirmed the plan. He stated the route could be reactivated during the first half of 2026. The airline previously operated this international route.

Fleet and Operational Capacity

The potential reactivation follows a major fleet upgrade. Air Panama recently added two Dash 8 Q400 turboprop aircraft. These additions strengthen the airline's capacity for regional travel.

The Dash 8 Q400 aircraft can carry 76 to 78 passengers.
The new planes allow for more efficient, frequent regional coverage.
The airline now operates a fleet of six aircraft. This includes the two Dash 8 Q400s and four Fokker 50s.

CEO Stagg noted the expansion is based on market conditions. Air Panama seeks to respond to real business opportunities. They avoid routes that are already heavily saturated.

Boosting Regional Connectivity and Tourism

Reactivating this route is a significant development. It will have a direct impact on regional connectivity expansion. It especially benefits the western part of Panama.

The service will link David’s Enrique Malek International Airport (DAV) directly to Costa Rica. This bypasses the need to travel through Panama City's capital. This direct link facilitates transit for travelers. It serves tourists, business travelers, and residents alike.

Impact on Chiriquí Province

The move is expected to significantly boost Chiriquí province tourism. Chiriquí is known for its highlands and agricultural heartland. Direct access from Costa Rica makes multi-destination tourism easier.

The route strengthens Central America air connection.
It consolidates Chiriquí as a strategic air gateway.
The direct flight time is estimated at only 45 minutes.

Air Panama currently maintains scheduled domestic flights. These destinations include Panama City, David, Chitré, Bocas del Toro, and Changuinola. The eventual reopening of the David–San José route would mark a return to scheduled international service and support the airline's gradual growth strategy, which also includes increased charter flight operations. The final decision rests on the ongoing evaluation of demand and market conditions, according to the airline's leadership.