⏰ Minimum Connection Times
Domestic → Domestic
45
minutes
Domestic → International
90
minutes
International → Domestic
90
minutes
International → International
120
minutes
Interline Connections
110
minutes
🏢 Terminal Information
Scarlett Martinez International Airport operates as Panama's premier beach resort aviation gateway, positioned 3 kilometers east of Río Hato in Coclé Province at 121 feet elevation, representing one of Central America's most remarkable military-to-civilian airport conversions following a $53.2 million reconstruction project completed in 2013. Named in honor of Scarlett Martinez, a Panamanian airline co-pilot who tragically died in a 1992 crash, this facility transformed a World War II-era Rio Hato Army Air Base built in 1942 into a modern international terminal specifically designed to serve Panama's Pacific coast tourism boom.
The airport features a single 2,450-meter asphalt runway (17/35) incorporating remarkable engineering innovation where the runway crosses directly over the Pan-American Highway via a specially constructed tunnel system, ensuring uninterrupted highway traffic flow while maintaining aviation operations. The modern terminal building efficiently processes international charter flights primarily from Sunwings and other carriers serving Canadian and American vacationers, featuring streamlined immigration and customs facilities designed for rapid processing of leisure travelers destined for nearby luxury resorts including Playa Blanca, Decameron, and Farallon.
Operational infrastructure reflects the airport's specialized tourism focus, with facilities optimized for handling charter aircraft and vacation travel rather than traditional commercial airline operations, supported by ground transportation systems providing 5-10 minute transfers to major Pacific coast resorts. The facility's unique history includes its role during Operation Just Cause in December 1989, when it became the first combat target for U.S. Air Force F-117 Nighthawk stealth fighters and witnessed the 2nd and 3rd Battalions, 75th Ranger Regiment parachute assault that neutralized Panamanian Defense Forces positions.
Strategic importance encompasses the airport's vital role supporting Panama's Pacific coast tourism development, enabling direct international access to luxury beach destinations that bypass Panama City's congestion while contributing significantly to regional economic development. The facility embodies successful infrastructure repurposing, transforming from a strategic military installation protecting the Panama Canal during World War II into a civilian gateway that has catalyzed tourism growth along Panama's Pacific Rivera, where the combination of tropical climate, luxury accommodations, and convenient aviation access has established the region as a premier Central American beach destination for North American travelers seeking convenient Caribbean-style luxury vacation experiences.
🔄 Connection Tips
Scarlett Martínez International Airport (RIH) is a modern and strategically located aviation gateway in the Coclé Province of Panama, serving as the primary hub for the booming 'Riviera Pacífica' beach resort region. Arriving at least 2 hours before your flight is recommended to navigate the security and boarding processes. The climate is tropical and humid year-round, with a significant rainy season from May to November, during which intense afternoon thunderstorms can cause localized delays.
Located in Rio Hato, approximately 120 kilometers southwest of Panama City, it primarily caters to international charters and low-cost carriers from Canada and the US. Ground transportation to the various major resorts, such as Playa Blanca and Bijao, is very straightforward, with pre-arranged shuttles or local taxis reaching the main attractions in approximately 10 to 15 minutes. For those exploring the central highlands or the historic town of Penonomé, Rio Hato is the essential starting point.
The terminal is functional and efficient, designed to process large groups of vacationers quickly, but it lacks the extensive duty-free shopping found at Tocumen International (PTY). The airport is located directly on the Pan-American Highway, making it an exceptionally convenient transit point for the central provinces. Always confirm your flight details and pre-arrange your ground transportation, as the airport provides a professional and streamlined environment for international sun-seekers.
⏰ 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.
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