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Tocumen Airport Leads the Americas in Operational Excellence and Reliability


With an impressive 90.34% of flights departing as scheduled, Tocumen International Airport has set a new benchmark for operational efficiency in Latin America.

Jim Hetzel
Director of Product Marketing
Cirium



We are delighted to recognize Panama City Tocumen International Airport’s (PTY) pivotal role in regional aviation with its ranking as the number one on-time medium-sized airport.


Situated at a critical juncture linking North, Central, and South America, PTY stands as the premier gateway to the Americas. Panama is not just a hub for connectivity; it serves a country rich in vibrant culture, breathtaking natural beauty, which also plays a pivotal role in global trade. Its diverse heritage blends indigenous, African, and Spanish influences, reflected in its music, dance, and festivals. Nature enthusiasts will find paradise in Panama’s lush rainforests, pristine beaches, and incredible biodiversity. The iconic Panama Canal serves as a cornerstone of international commerce, connecting the Atlantic and Pacific Oceans and solidifying Panama’s position as a leader in global trade. As a thriving financial and logistics hub, Panama plays a critical role in Latin America’s economy, driving growth and innovation across the region.

Tocumen International Airport’s strategic location amplifies the importance of its performance metrics.

Its partnership with Panama’s flagship carrier, Copa Airlines—renowned for leading the region in on-time performance for over a decade—further enhances this success. Together, they exemplify operational excellence, cementing PTY’s reputation as a reliable connecting hub for travelers across the Americas and beyond.

The broader significance of PTY’s ranking transcends its immediate impact on departure times. For Panamanian aviation, this accolade symbolizes both national pride and the success of the country’s efforts to position itself as a leader in aviation excellence. Panama’s robust commitment to efficiency, customer satisfaction, and cutting-edge technology in airport operations has proven instrumental in maintaining Tocumen International Airport’s status as a leading player on the global stage.

Regionally, PTY’s achievement in punctuality sets a precedent for other airports in Latin America to follow. Reliable on-time performance is not merely a statistic; it strengthens passenger confidence, enhances airline schedules, and fosters economic growth by facilitating smoother logistics and connectivity. Tocumen’s role as a model airport encourages higher expectations for service quality across the region, thus driving competition that ultimately benefits all travelers.

Panama City Tocumen International Airport’s recognition as the most punctual medium-sized airport for 2024 is a noteworthy accomplishment, but it is also a testament to its enduring influence in global aviation. By continuing to prioritize punctuality and operational precision, PTY is not only upholding its role as the gateway to the Americas but also advancing the standards for air travel reliability in Latin America, setting a course for sustained progress in the years to come.

Report highlights

  • Delta Air Lines Secures Cirium’s Platinum Award for Operational Excellence for Fourth Year Running 
  • Aeromexico Recognized as the Most On-Time Airline in the Global Category 
  • Regional Leaders Announced: Delta Air Lines, Copa Airlines, Iberia Express, Japan Airlines, and FlySafair Take Top Honors 
  • Bogotá El Dorado International Airport Earns Cirium’s Inaugural Airport Platinum Award 
  • Riyadh King Khalid International Airport Named Most On-Time Global Airport for 2024

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