Flights, baggage allowance, onboard services, and travel information
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Bringing a pet on an Air Panama (7P) flight is possible on many routes, but space is limited and acceptance depends on aircraft type and destination. The airline generally carries small cats and dogs in the cabin on select services and can accept animals in the hold when the aircraft and conditions allow. Because 7P operates smaller regional aircraft on several routes, availability can sell out quickly—always pre‑book your pet and wait for written confirmation before you purchase a nonrefundable ticket. Policies can change and may differ by route, so treat the airline’s confirmation as your final reference.
If your companion is a small cat or dog that can remain comfortably inside a ventilated carrier under the seat, in‑cabin travel is typically possible. Expect a strict combined weight limit (pet + carrier) and a cap on the number of pets per flight; once the limit is reached, additional pets must travel in the hold or on another flight. Your pet must stay fully inside the closed carrier for the entire journey, including boarding and deplaning, and should be clean, non‑aggressive, and at least 8 weeks old. Soft‑sided carriers are easier to fit under seats on regional aircraft, and only one pet per passenger is usually permitted. Emotional support animals are treated as pets; only trained service dogs are accepted free of charge with required documentation.
If your animal is too large for the cabin or the cabin quota is full, Air Panama may accept it as checked baggage in the pressurized hold, subject to weather, aircraft door size, and route restrictions. Use an IATA‑compliant hard crate with secure metal fasteners, absorbent bedding, leak‑proof design, and water dish; wheels must be removed or locked. Brachycephalic (snub‑nosed) breeds and very young, elderly, pregnant, or ill animals often face additional limitations for safety. Airlines typically suspend hold acceptance during extreme heat; expect seasonal or time‑of‑day embargoes in Panama’s tropical climate. Tranquilizers are discouraged due to increased in‑flight risk—discuss alternatives with your veterinarian.
Your carrier must be large enough for your pet to stand, turn, and lie down naturally, yet small enough to fit under the seat (for cabin travel). Under‑seat space on regional aircraft is modest; as a practical guide, many airlines accept soft carriers roughly in the 40 × 28 × 20 cm range, but Air Panama will apply its own fit test at check‑in—confirm exact dimensions with 7P for your specific flight. For hold transport, measure using the IATA formula (nose‑to‑root‑of‑tail length, leg height, width at shoulders) to choose the right crate size. Attach a label with your name, phone, and destination address, and secure food and water containers inside.
For flights within Panama, carry your pet’s vaccination record (rabies up to date) and a recent veterinary health certificate; some airports or routes may require that the certificate be issued within 10 days of travel. For international trips, you’ll need an official health certificate from a licensed veterinarian (and often government endorsement), proof of rabies vaccination meeting the destination’s timing rules, and any import permits required by that country. Rules for Costa Rica, Colombia, and other neighbors can include parasite treatments and specific certificate language—check both Panama’s authorities and the destination’s regulator well before departure. Microchipping is recommended even if not mandatory. Keep originals and copies in your hand baggage; you may be asked to show them at check‑in and on arrival.
Pet transportation is charged as a separate service and not counted toward your free baggage allowance. Fees vary by route, aircraft, and whether your pet travels in the cabin or in the hold; payment is typically due at the airport during check‑in. To book, contact Air Panama early with your route, date, animal type/breed, and carrier dimensions/weight; the airline will confirm if a pet spot is available and what fee applies. Arrive early—about 90 minutes for domestic and at least 2 hours for international flights—so staff can complete inspections without delaying your departure.
Air Panama generally accepts only domesticated cats and dogs; reptiles, birds, rodents, and exotic species are typically not permitted as baggage. Each flight has a maximum number of pets allowed in the cabin and in the hold, and some small‑aircraft routes may have tighter limits or no hold acceptance due to door size. Snub‑nosed breeds may be restricted from hold travel for safety. Animals that appear ill, aggressive, or improperly contained will be refused. Trained service dogs assisting a person with a disability are carried without a pet fee when all documentation and behavior standards are met.
A calm, carrier‑acclimated pet travels better and safer. In the week before departure, practice stays inside the closed carrier, gradually increasing duration until your pet can rest quietly for the length of the flight. On the day, offer a light meal 3–4 hours before departure, hydrate normally, and allow a long walk or litter break just before check‑in. Line the carrier with an absorbent pad, attach an ID tag and your contact details, and carry spare pads, wipes, and a small leash. Finally, keep a folder with copies of health documents and your pet reservation—Air Panama’s acceptance is always subject to inspection at the airport.
Checklist (quick recap you can screenshot):
Air Panama (IATA: 7P) generally follows common industry categories: an infant is a child under 2 years old on the day of travel, a child is typically 2–11, and an adult is 12 and above. These definitions matter because fares, seating, and identification requirements are tied to age at departure, not at booking. If your child turns two during the trip, you’ll usually need a seat for the return leg. For adolescents, fares are often priced as adults even if they are under 18. When in doubt, bring proof of age, such as a passport or birth certificate extract.
You can hold one infant on your lap per adult traveler; a second infant with the same adult will require a separate seat. A lap infant travels without their own seat and must use the adult’s seatbelt with an additional loop provided by crew when required. If you prefer your infant to ride in a car seat, purchase a child fare so they have their own seat. Seating with infants is restricted away from exit rows, and crews may reseat families due to oxygen mask limits per row—this is normal and safety-driven. Fees for lap infants can vary by route, and taxes may still apply, so it’s wise to confirm the charge at booking.
Choosing a seat for an infant in a car seat is easiest at the window to avoid blocking aisle access. Use an approved child restraint with clear labels (FAA, ECE R44/04, or UN R129/i-Size) and follow the manufacturer’s installation direction—rear-facing for smaller infants when possible. Boosters without an integrated harness are not suitable for takeoff and landing. If you’re unsure whether your model fits, measure the base width and compare it to typical economy seat widths on 7P’s short-haul aircraft. A quick note to ground staff at check-in helps them plan boarding and seating around your needs.
For a lap infant, airlines on regional routes often allow a small diaper bag and necessary infant items in the cabin even when no separate cabin bag is included—Air Panama is generally aligned with that practice. Liquids for baby care (formula, milk, baby food) are permitted in reasonable quantities after security screening; keep them accessible for inspection. If you’ve bought a seat for your child, their baggage allowance usually mirrors the adult allowance for your fare and route. Because 7P operates a mix of domestic and regional services with differing fare families, always check the allowance listed on your e-ticket. If your connection involves another airline, the most significant carrier’s rules may apply to checked bags.
Air Panama (IATA: 7P) serves Panama’s key domestic and near-regional routes with a straightforward, point‑to‑point model. Unlike larger network carriers, it currently operates with no formal frequent flyer program. That can feel unusual if you’re used to elite tiers and mileage balances, but it also simplifies things: you focus on schedules, fares, and flexibility rather than chasing thresholds. Below is how that reality shapes earning, redeeming, and getting the most value when you fly 7P.
Air Panama does not publish elite status tiers, qualification metrics, or member accounts at this time. There’s no enrollment to complete and no progress to track; you simply book and travel. For regular flyers, that means the best “status strategy” is picking the fare and timetable that match your plans, and keeping an eye on sales. Policies can evolve, so if a program is introduced later, check the airline’s official channels before your next trip.
Because 7P doesn’t run its own currency, you won’t earn proprietary miles from flights, and there are no alliance or airline partners to credit to. The practical workaround is to let your wallet do the earning. Many travel‑rewards credit cards award extra points for airfare purchases, and some bank travel portals list Air Panama fares; booking there can earn points in your bank’s ecosystem. Availability varies by issuer and market, so it’s worth comparing the airline’s site price with your card’s portal and any cashback offers before paying.
If your card allows statement‑credit redemptions for travel, consider paying directly on airpanama.com and then using points to offset the charge. You retain the airline’s direct‑booking flexibility while still collecting card rewards—often the simplest path when there’s no native program to manage.
With no 7P miles to spend, redemptions happen through third‑party currencies. Bank points that can be used at a fixed value in a travel portal or as a statement credit are your friend here; they effectively “buy” the ticket for you. Since Air Panama is not in a global alliance and does not list partner awards, you won’t find classic mileage upgrades or partner-flight awards tied to 7P inventory. Non‑flight redemptions (like hotels or experiences) would be through your bank or OTA program, not the airline.
If you’re building a bigger itinerary, a common approach is redeeming miles with a long‑haul carrier to reach Panama City, then purchasing 7P separately for domestic hops. It keeps your premium-cabin savings on the long leg while leaving the short segments flexible and inexpensive.
Air Panama (IATA: 7P) runs a compact, route‑fit fleet shaped by Panama’s short hops, coastal airstrips, and island runways. As of late 2024, the airline fields roughly ten active aircraft centered on Fokker 50 turboprops and Cessna 208B Grand Caravan utility planes, with a small contingent of Fokker 100 jets available for higher‑demand services and charters. The jets cycle in and out of use as markets shift, while the turboprops anchor the daily schedule from Panama City–Albrook (PAC). This mix enables 7P to serve everything from Bocas del Toro’s leisure flows to remote Guna Yala communities that need short‑runway capability. Exact counts can change with heavy checks and seasonality, but the balance remains: turboprops first, light props for remote strips, jets when the mission calls for them.
The backbone is the Fokker 50, a sturdy, high‑wing turboprop typically fitted with about 50 seats in a single‑class, 2‑2 layout. Cabins are straightforward and comfortable for 40–60‑minute hops, with legroom around the low‑30‑inch range and slimline seats on many frames. The type’s short‑field performance and efficient cruise make it ideal for Panama’s domestic network, and the high wing means great views on island approaches. Overhead bins are modest, so soft carry‑ons that can slide under the seat are the safest bet.
At the smaller end sits the Cessna 208B Grand Caravan, generally set up for 9–12 passengers and prized for reaching short or rustic runways. Expect a simple, intimate cabin, open luggage stowage, and weight‑based seating on some routes—practical necessities for very short strips. When demand spikes or for select regional and charter missions, the airline can deploy the Fokker 100 in a single‑class 2‑3 arrangement, usually around 97–100 seats. It bridges the gap to busier city pairs, adding speed and capacity without moving to large mainline jets.
Like many regional carriers, 7P blends newer light aircraft with well‑maintained classics. The newest frames in regular use tend to be the Grand Caravans, many built in the 2000s or later and equipped with modern avionics. The oldest airframes are the Fokker turboprops and jets, widely produced in the late 1980s and early 1990s and still valued for their ruggedness. Continuous refurbishment, avionics upgrades, and careful maintenance keep these aircraft competitive, including GPS‑guided approaches and ADS‑B where required. The result is a fleet that may be mature on paper but remains mission‑fit for Panama’s geography.
Air Panama (7P) runs short domestic and regional hops, and the inflight food service reflects that simple, time‑efficient model. The airline operates a single Economy cabin without a separate premium class, so offerings are the same for everyone. On most flights, crew prioritize safety and a quick turnaround, and service can be abbreviated on days with turbulence or tight schedules. You can usually expect complimentary water and, when time permits, a soft drink or juice; a small packaged snack may be offered on select routes. Set expectations accordingly: no full meal service, no hot dishes, and no elaborate menus.
On ultra‑short sectors—think 30–40 minutes—service may be limited to water only, and sometimes it’s paused entirely if the seatbelt sign stays on. Flights closer to an hour (for example, Panama City–David or Panama City–Bocas del Toro) are more likely to see a quick beverage round and a light, pre‑packaged snack such as crackers or cookies. There is no buy‑on‑board menu, and galley equipment is minimal, so items are served cold and sealed. Because there’s only one cabin, there’s no differentiation by class; everyone receives the same simple offer. Availability can vary by aircraft type and exact flight time, so treat any snack as a pleasant extra rather than a guarantee.
Air Panama does not operate a formal special‑meal program (e.g., vegetarian, vegan, gluten‑free, Kosher, or Halal codes), so the most reliable approach is to bring your own suitable snacks or a cold meal. Galley facilities do not support heating or refrigeration, and the airline cannot ensure an allergen‑free environment or prevent cross‑contact with common allergens. If you have a severe allergy, carry your medication, consider wiping your tray table and armrests, and inform the crew discreetly; they may assist within operational limits. As always, policies and supply can change without notice, so checking shortly before departure is wise. For children or travelers with medical dietary needs, packing familiar, sealed items will reduce stress during the flight.
Expect a modest but dependable beverage selection: bottled water, a few soft drinks, and occasionally juice; coffee or tea may appear on slightly longer segments and at certain times of day. The emphasis is on sealed, recognizable brands that are easy to serve during very short flying times. Quality is straightforward rather than gourmet, and service is intentionally brisk. On rough‑weather days or extremely short hops, the crew may suspend service for safety, resuming only if time allows. Staying hydrated matters in the dry cabin air, so sipping water before and during the flight is a good habit.
Air Panama (IATA: 7P) focuses on short regional hops across Panama and nearby destinations, and the onboard experience reflects that simplicity. On most aircraft, including turboprops and small regional jets, there is no built‑in in‑flight entertainment system, so you won’t find a curated library of movies, TV shows, music, or games. Instead, the highlight is the flight itself: big windows, low cruising altitudes, and often stunning views of the canal, rainforest, and island archipelagos. If you prefer screen time, you’ll want to prepare your own content in advance and treat the cabin like a comfortable, unplugged space. This minimalist approach keeps the cabin uncluttered and friendly, but it does mean a bit of planning on your part. The variety and quality of what you watch or listen to will depend on what you bring along, so add a mix of long‑form and short‑form content to match flight times.
Since there are no seatback screens or overhead monitors, the only reliable access method is your own phone, tablet, or e‑reader. There is also no airline app or onboard portal to stream content, so anything you plan to watch or hear should be saved offline before boarding. Most aircraft do not offer USB or AC power at the seat, making a fully charged device—and ideally a small power bank—your best friend. Remember to switch devices to airplane mode; Bluetooth headphones are typically fine once permitted by the crew. A lightweight pair of wired earbuds can be useful too, as some small aircraft can be noisier than larger jets.
At this time, Air Panama does not provide inflight Wi‑Fi, and there is no streaming service available on board. That means you won’t be able to browse the web, message, or stream from platforms like Netflix or Spotify while in the air. Consider using airport or hotel Wi‑Fi to download shows, playlists, and podcasts just before you head to the gate. Voice calls are not supported in flight, and mobile data must remain off in airplane mode for the duration. If connectivity changes in the future, the airline will usually update its website and preflight communications, so it’s worth a quick check before you travel.
Air Panama generally operates a single‑class cabin layout, so there aren’t entertainment differences between economy and a premium cabin—the offering is the same throughout. What varies most is the seat and window position, which can shape your view and personal comfort rather than your access to any screens. The airline does not advertise partnerships with major content providers, and there is no onboard magazine‑style streaming portal. Occasionally you may find simple reading material or route information, but it’s best to consider that a pleasant surprise rather than a guarantee. For the most current details, check your booking confirmation or the airline’s site shortly before departure.
Strollers and car seats are commonly accepted in addition to your standard allowance. You can check them at the counter or take a fully collapsible stroller to the gate for tagging. At some smaller airports, gate-checked items are returned at the aircraft steps; at others, they’ll come out on the belt—ask staff at boarding so you know where to wait. To protect gear, consider a simple gate-check bag and remove loose accessories. Label everything clearly with your name and phone number.
Using a stroller through the airport can be a sanity-saver, especially if you’re juggling bags. Fold it before boarding starts so handlers can load it promptly, and keep valuables with you. For onboard sleep, note that 7P’s short-haul fleet typically does not offer bassinets, and there may be no space to mount one safely. A soft carrycot counts as cabin baggage only if it fits within size/weight limits and can be stowed securely. For babies who nap best lying down, aim for a window pair so you can create a cozy corner without blocking the aisle.
With car seats, installation must not impede recline or evacuation routes. Place the restraint in a window seat, avoid exit rows, and be prepared for crew to verify approval labels. Belt lengths can vary on regional aircraft; if your seat requires a locking clip, pack it in your carry-on. Crew cannot install restraints for you, but they will give you time and guidance to do so safely. If your child is over two and not in a car seat, they must use the aircraft seatbelt during taxi, takeoff, landing, and turbulence.
Service on 7P’s routes is designed for short sectors, so expect simple refreshments rather than full meal service, and no pre-order children’s meals. Bring favorite snacks, an empty bottle to refill after security, and any formula or baby food you rely on. Cabin crew can often provide hot water, but heating or sterilizing items is limited by safety rules—pack a small thermos if you need precise temperatures. Many regional aircraft lack built-in entertainment, so download shows to a tablet and pack child-sized, volume-limited headphones. Changing tables may be limited on smaller airframes; a compact fold-out mat is invaluable.
Families with young children are usually invited to board early so you can settle in without the rush. If pre-boarding isn’t announced, politely ask at the gate; staff will generally accommodate you. Seat selection as early as your fare allows increases the chance of sitting together, and checking in as soon as it opens helps on busy flights. Keep essentials—diapers, wipes, a change of clothes, medicines—in a single under-seat bag so they’re reachable when the seatbelt sign is on. A relaxed pace through the airport makes everything easier for you and your child.
For international travel, every child needs a valid passport, and some nationalities require visas. Panama has specific exit requirements for minors: if a child is Panamanian or resident and not traveling with both parents, authorities may require notarized consent from the absent parent(s). Carry original documents plus copies, and keep digital scans handy. For domestic flights, bring official ID and proof of age; a birth certificate may suffice for infants. Always verify entry/exit rules with Panama’s immigration authority and your destination’s consulate before departure.
A little planning goes a long way on regional flights, where cabins fill quickly and overhead space is tight. Dress your child in comfortable layers, since temperatures can vary between tropical tarmacs and cool cabins. Time feeds for takeoff and landing to ease ear pressure, or offer a pacifier or sippy cup. Tell the gate agent you’re traveling with a stroller or car seat so they can tag it and arrange help at the aircraft steps. Build in extra time for security and boarding; a calm parent sets the tone for a calmer child.
Because Air Panama’s network includes varied aircraft and stations, specific services can differ by route and season. Policies for infant fees, baggage pieces, and gate-check handling may also change, especially when your ticket includes another airline. The most reliable source is the fare rules on your booking confirmation, backed up by a quick call or message to 7P or your travel agent. Confirm what’s included for your exact flight, note any fees, and keep a copy on your phone. With the essentials squared away, you can focus on the fun parts of traveling together.
In the absence of status tiers, benefits are tied to the fare you buy and the operational realities of smaller aircraft. Baggage allowances and weight limits can be tighter than on long‑haul jets, and carry‑on rules are enforced carefully for safety. It’s smart to review the allowance shown during booking and pack accordingly to avoid on‑airport fees. Seat selection and change flexibility also depend on fare type; paying a little more upfront can save money if your plans might shift.
Air Panama primarily uses Panama City’s Marcos A. Gelabert Airport (PAC), a small, convenient field with limited lounge infrastructure. There isn’t a 7P lounge or alliance lounge network; if you value pre‑flight quiet time, arrive with realistic expectations, or use a third‑party lounge membership where available at your departure point outside PAC.
A few practical habits go a long way on a carrier without a mileage program:
In short, the absence of tiers doesn’t mean the absence of strategy. Focus on smart booking channels, plan for aircraft-specific baggage realities, and let flexible bank points stand in for traditional miles. It’s a lean, transparent way to make Air Panama work hard for your itinerary without the overhead of managing another loyalty account.
As of 2024, there are no public blockbuster orders, and Air Panama’s fleet strategy appears deliberately incremental. Expect older Fokker 50/100 frames to retire gradually as parts availability and economics dictate, balanced by continued use of Grand Caravans for remote destinations. The airline has long signaled interest in right‑sized, proven types rather than headline‑grabbing new models, and evaluations of modern turboprops (like ATRs or Dash 8s) or second‑hand regional jets remain plausible pathways. Any transition is likely to be paced to demand and maintenance cycles rather than a sudden fleet swap. In short, steady renewal over revolutionary change.
Air Panama’s network naturally leans into short‑haul efficiency, and turboprops are a central sustainability tool, often burning 20–40% less fuel than comparable small jets on short sectors. Right‑sizing capacity to each route limits empty seats and unnecessary emissions, especially on thin island services. Standard operating practices—single‑engine taxi where appropriate, optimized climb/cruise profiles, and electronic flight bags that cut paper—add incremental savings. Operating from Albrook also reduces long repositioning flights, trimming fuel burn across the schedule. While large‑scale SAF use in the region is still emerging, the fleet is positioned to adopt it as supply and infrastructure develop.
The high‑wing Fokker 50 is a rare sight these days, and 7P remains one of the few carriers in the Americas still using the type in scheduled service. Base operations at Albrook’s relatively short runway are a perfect match for turboprops, which handle hot‑and‑high and short‑field conditions with confidence. The Grand Caravan opens up tiny coastal and island airstrips that would be out of reach for larger aircraft, making some of Panama’s most remote communities practically accessible. Meanwhile, the Fokker 100 gives the airline a flexible tool for regional charters and seasonal peaks, preserving speed without over‑scaling capacity. It’s a small fleet with a clear purpose: fly the mission, not the marketing brochure—reliably, efficiently, and with a view out a big high‑wing window.
Alcoholic beverages are generally not a feature of Air Panama’s short domestic flights, and you should not expect beer, wine, or spirits as standard. As with most carriers, consuming your own alcohol onboard is not permitted, even if purchased after security. If alcohol is provided on a specific charter or occasional longer regional service, it will be limited and served only at the crew’s discretion and within regulations. Safety and local laws take precedence, so follow crew guidance at all times.
There is no pre‑order system for meals with Air Panama, and you won’t find high‑profile chef collaborations or branded gourmet programs. The airline’s model prioritizes punctual regional connectivity over elaborate catering, keeping service simple and consistent. For groups or charters, any special catering must be arranged directly with the airline or broker in advance and is subject to aircraft and airport constraints. Equipment swaps and schedule changes can affect what’s feasible onboard, so always read pre‑flight emails for updates. In practical terms, plan your own food strategy and consider airport options before you board.
Because offerings are light, a little preparation goes a long way. If you’re connecting through Albrook (PAC) or David (DAV), grab a bite at the terminal before boarding to avoid rushing later. Pack compact, mess‑free snacks in a resealable pouch, and avoid strong odors out of courtesy to fellow travelers. Keep in mind liquid rules at security; an empty bottle you can refill airside is handy where facilities exist. Smaller turboprops may have stricter weight and balance considerations, so keep any food you bring light and well stowed.
Because entertainment is bring‑your‑own, a little preparation goes a long way toward a relaxing, enjoyable flight. Think of Air Panama as an offline, scenic interlude rather than a binge‑watch session, and plan accordingly. Aim to download before you go so you’re not hunting for Wi‑Fi at the last minute. If you are traveling with children, pre‑load kid‑friendly shows and games that work fully offline and test them on airplane mode. Finally, consider your comfort too—snacks, a travel pillow, and a great playlist can make a short hop feel special.
On these routes, the view often steals the show, so don’t hesitate to put the screen away and enjoy the landscape between takeoff and landing. If seat selection is offered, a forward or wing‑adjacent window can deliver especially steady vistas on turboprops. For nervous flyers, gentle music or a downloaded meditation can make the time pass more comfortably. Packing light entertainment like a paperback or a travel journal pairs well with the airline’s straightforward cabin. With a bit of planning, you’ll step off refreshed, entertained, and ready for what’s next.
Air Panama
7P
Country of registration
Official website
Address
Panama, Panama City, Avenida Boulevard Pacífico, Albrook, 0823-00844
Air Panama, founded in 1980, is a Panama-based regional carrier operating domestic and short international routes with a fleet of turboprops and small regional aircraft. Strengths include an extensive domestic network connecting Panama City with remote destinations, competitive fares and charter flexibility suited to island and jungle access. Weaknesses are a relatively small, older fleet, limited international reach, modest onboard amenities and variable punctuality and service consistency typical of regional operators. It is not a low-cost or premium long-haul airline but a local regional carrier; no official Skytrax rating is publicly listed.
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