⏰ Minimum Connection Times
Domestic → Domestic
30
minutes
Domestic → International
60
minutes
Interline Connections
120
minutes
🏢 Terminal Information
Ailigandí Airport (AIL) serves the Guna Yala (San Blas) region of Panama, providing small‑aircraft access to the island community. Facilities consist of a short runway with a very small terminal hut near the shoreline. Check‑in is handled by the local agent or charter operator; passengers wait in a shaded area before boarding on foot across the apron. Arriving bags are handed back adjacent to the building.\n\nThe layout is extremely compact. From the boat landing or village path to the terminal is about a minute, and the walk from the terminal to the aircraft is typically 30–60 seconds. There are no buses, jet bridges, or inter‑terminal transfers; all movements are ground‑level.\n\nThere is no TSA‑style screening and no immigration/customs at AIL. International formalities are completed at Panama City airports (PTY/PAC) before or after island segments. Weather and sea conditions can affect both flights and boat transfers—plan buffers.\n\nAmenities are minimal: basic seating, shade, and sometimes a small kiosk when flights operate. There are no lounges or shops, and cellular coverage can vary. Ground transport consists of boats and pre‑arranged local guides or drivers for mainland connections.\n\nAccessibility is basic and step‑free, though paths may be uneven; staff and community members can assist passengers with reduced mobility. Family facilities are minimal—carry water, baby supplies, and sun protection.
🔄 Connection Tips
Island airstrip in San Blas archipelago. Weather and sea conditions affect operations.
⏰ Minimum Connection Times
Domestic → Domestic
30
minutes
Domestic → International
60
minutes
Interline Connections
120
minutes
🏢 Terminal Information
Achutupu Airport (ACU) in Panama serves the Guna Yala Indigenous Region, specifically the community on Achutupo island. This is a very small, regional airfield, distinct for having its runway located on the mainland, approximately 0.7km southwest of the island, requiring a boat transfer for passengers to reach the island community. Its terminal facilities are extremely rudimentary, often consisting of a simple, basic building or a shelter that provides minimal amenities for passenger processing. The layout is minimalist, with direct access from the small landing strip to the basic waiting area on the mainland, before onward boat transfer. There are no complex multi-terminal configurations or extensive ground facilities; all operations are conducted within this singular, basic setup. Walking times on the mainland are negligible, typically mere seconds from arrival to the boat transfer point, emphasizing its functional role in providing essential access to remote indigenous communities.
Security procedures at ACU are minimal, consistent with its classification as a small, remote regional airfield. Formal security checkpoints with advanced screening equipment are not present. Security is typically a matter of visual checks, adherence to local aviation safety protocols, and direct coordination with pilots or local air taxi services. There are no significant wait times for any checks. As a domestic airfield, there are no immigration or customs facilities on site; these functions would be handled at larger, designated international entry points if applicable. Passengers should expect a highly informal and direct process, reflecting the very low volume of air traffic and the unique operational environment of an indigenous airstrip.
Amenities at Achutupu Airport are exceptionally sparse. Passengers should not expect any airline lounges, dedicated dining facilities, or retail shops. Any available provisions would be extremely limited, possibly from a very basic local vendor in the community, and travelers are strongly advised to bring all necessary supplies, including food, water, and personal items. Seating in the waiting area is basic and often outdoors, and very limited. Accessibility features are rudimentary, primarily consisting of ground-level access, but the required boat transfer to the island presents unique challenges. Travelers requiring assistance must coordinate thoroughly in advance with their air operator or local contacts. Family facilities, such as play areas or nursing rooms, are entirely absent. The airstrip's main purpose is essential logistical support and access for remote indigenous communities, not passenger comfort or convenience. Weather and sea conditions can significantly impact both flying and boat operations.
🔄 Connection Tips
Island airstrip requiring boat transfer from mainland runway. Weather and sea conditions affect both flying and boat operations. Limited services - coordinate in advance.
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