By the Caribbean Journal staff

Copa Airlines has confirmed its plans to launch new flights from Panama to Barbados.

The new flights, which will launch July 17, will operate twice weekly between the two destinations.

“Copa Airlines is proud to begin flights to Barbados and be the only airline connecting this beautiful and dynamic Caribbean island with Latin America. With this new destination, we uphold our leadership and presence in the Caribbean region, where we serve 16 destinations,” said Pedro Heilbron, CEO of Copa Airlines.

The Copa flight will leave Panama on Tuesdays and Fridays, departing Panama at 9:30 AM and arriving in Barbados at 2 PM, with the return flights departing Barbados at 3 PM and arriving at 5:30 PM in Panama.

“This new route is very important for us and our industry service providers, as it provides the opportunity to show all of Latin America our culture, our incredible beaches, our range of hotels, our culinary identity and the many activities we have to offer,” said William “Billy” Griffith, CEO of Barbados Tourism Marketing Inc. “This undoubtedly is beneficial for both countries and strengthens the economy and tourism sector, as well as elevates the recognition of the island in Latin America.”

Copa will be operating the route on Boeing 737-800 aircraft with capacity for 16 passengers in business class and 138 in the main cabin.

The new service will be a boost for Barbados as its seeks to draw more travelers from Latin America; Copa’s Tocumen International Airport base has long been an important gateway for travelers heading from South America and Central America to the Caribbean.

“The connectivity between Panama and this new destination will generate important opportunities for the development and strengthening of tourism and commercial activity, both for Panama and the 76 additional destinations serviced by the airline,” Heilbron said.