⏰ Minimum Connection Times
Domestic → Domestic
45
minutes
Domestic → International
90
minutes
International → Domestic
90
minutes
International → International
120
minutes
Interline Connections
150
minutes
🏢 Terminal Information
Enrique Malek International Airport (DAV) is the primary aviation gateway to western Panama, serving the city of David and the broader Chiriquí Province. As the second busiest airport in the country, it operates from a single, recently renovated terminal building that handles both high-frequency domestic flights to Panama City and regional international services. The airport's design is noted for its simplicity and efficiency, providing a professional yet comfortable environment that is exceptionally easy for travelers to navigate.
The terminal layout is centered around a main general hall that integrates check-in counters, security screening, and arrivals within a single building. This compact structure ensures that walking distances are minimal, and the flow from the terminal entrance to the boarding gates is virtually seamless. The airport has undergone significant modernization in recent years, which included a complete renovation of the passenger areas and a substantial extension of the primary runway. These upgrades allow the facility to safely accommodate modern narrow-body jets like the Boeing 737, greatly increasing the region's connectivity.
Facilities at Enrique Malek focus on passenger comfort and modern convenience. The entire terminal is fully air-conditioned, providing a welcome escape from the tropical heat of the lowlands. Travelers have access to free high-speed Wi-Fi throughout the building, and several charging stations are available in the departure waiting areas. For financial needs, the airport features two conveniently located ATMs: one near the main restroom facilities and another in the shopping area. The terminal is also supported by 24-hour security and a staffed information desk to assist with local travel inquiries.
Dining and shopping options at the airport are well-suited for a regional hub. The landside public area features several small cafes and snack bars where travelers can enjoy fresh Panamanian coffee, sandwiches, and local pastries before passing through security. The retail selection includes modest stores offering travel essentials, newspapers, and a variety of souvenirs that reflect the unique culture of the Chiriquí region. Most concessions are timed to coincide with flight operations, ensuring that all departing passengers have access to refreshments.
Strategically, DAV is the essential entry point for tourism and commerce in western Panama. It provides the most efficient link for visitors heading to the highlands of Boquete, the coastal resorts of the Gulf of Chiriquí, and the various agricultural centers of the province. Ground transportation is readily available at the terminal exit, with a fleet of taxis and pre-arranged shuttle services connecting passengers to the city center and nearby tourist destinations. With its professional staff and updated infrastructure, Enrique Malek International serves as a vital and welcoming gateway to the diverse landscapes of Chiriquí.
🔄 Connection Tips
Enrique Malek International Airport (DAV) is the primary gateway to western Panama and the Chiriquí Province. The airport features a modern, air-conditioned terminal that is easy to navigate due to its compact, single-level design. For most travelers, the final destination is Boquete, located 45 to 60 minutes away. A critical connection tip for DAV is the choice between traditional taxis and Uber. While a taxi to Boquete typically costs $30 to $40 USD and can be hailed at the arrivals curb, Uber is active in David and can be significantly cheaper, often $15 to $20 USD. For those on a strict budget, take a local taxi for $2 to $5 USD to the David 'Terminal de Buses,' where inexpensive buses depart for Boquete every 20 to 30 minutes. Within the terminal, amenities include free high-speed Wi-Fi and ATMs, which is important since Boquete can have long lines at the few available bank machines. If you are connecting to a domestic flight to Panama City, arrive 90 minutes early, as morning and late-afternoon flight banks can lead to congestion at the single security checkpoint. The airport's location in the tropical lowlands means it can be very hot outside, so stay in the air-conditioned terminal until your transport is ready. Lastly, if you are renting a car, major agencies have desks in the arrivals hall, but pre-booking is essential during the high season (December to April) to ensure availability.
⏰ Minimum Connection Times
Domestic → Domestic
45
minutes
Domestic → International
90
minutes
International → Domestic
90
minutes
International → International
120
minutes
Interline Connections
150
minutes
🏢 Terminal Information
Panamá Pacífico International Airport (BLB), formerly the Howard Air Force Base, serves as a significant secondary aviation hub for Panama City. Located approximately 15 kilometers southwest of the city center across the Bridge of the Americas, the airport has evolved into a key gateway for low-cost carriers and regional flights, most notably serving as a base for Wingo. Its position within the Panamá Pacífico Special Economic Zone makes it a vital piece of infrastructure for both business travelers and tourists looking for an efficient alternative to the much larger Tocumen International Airport.
The airport underwent an extensive modernization program that culminated in the reopening of a new passenger terminal in July 2022. This updated facility features a single, streamlined terminal building that handles both domestic and international operations, significantly increasing the airport's capacity and operational efficiency. The compact layout is a major advantage for travelers, as it minimizes walking distances and allows for exceptionally fast processing times; many passengers can transition from their aircraft through immigration and customs to the city exit in under 30 minutes.
Inside the terminal, passengers have access to essential amenities designed for a modern travel experience. The facility includes several cafes and snack bars, including the well-known Kotowa Coffee House, as well as a selection of duty-free shops and souvenir stores. For business travelers and those seeking premium comfort, a dedicated VIP Terminal offers private lounges, personalized concierge services, high-speed Wi-Fi, and well-equipped meeting rooms. While the airport provides free Wi-Fi and mobile charging stations throughout, travelers should note that dining options past the security checkpoint can be more limited than in the main landside hall.
🔄 Connection Tips
Connecting at Panamá Pacífico International Airport (BLB) is a significantly different experience from the city's main hub at Tocumen (PTY). As a former Air Force base turned low-cost gateway, BLB is compact and efficient, offering fast processing times for immigration and customs. However, most 'connections' here involve either a self-transfer to another Wingo flight or a cross-city journey to PTY for long-haul services. If you are transferring to PTY, be aware that the airports are roughly 35km apart on opposite sides of the city. You must allow at least 4.5 to 5 hours between flights to account for clearing customs, collecting luggage, and navigating Panama City's notorious traffic, especially over the Bridge of the Americas during rush hours.
For those flying with Wingo, the primary carrier at BLB, avoiding unnecessary fees is crucial. You must check in online between 72 and 3 hours before your flight; failing to do so will result in a counter check-in fee. Additionally, ensure you have your boarding pass saved on your phone. The terminal itself has undergone recent modernization but remains focused on essential services. Past the security checkpoint, dining options are extremely limited, so it is highly recommended to eat at the main cafeteria in the landside hall before proceeding to the gates.
A practical tip for travelers: the terminal is known for its aggressive air conditioning, so keeping a light jacket or sweater handy is advisable. For ground transportation, Uber is the most transparent and reliable way to reach Panama City center or transfer to PTY, typically costing between $25 and $40. Always verify your departure airport on your ticket, as many travelers mistakenly head to Tocumen for flights operating out of Panamá Pacífico.
← Back to Enrique Malek International Airport