Before You Land
Everything you need to arrive at PTY prepared and ready to enjoy Panama from the moment you step off the plane.
Real-time Flight Status & Airport Delays
Track any flight in real time using trusted tools below. Enter your flight number to see live position, estimated arrival, and gate information.
Customs, allowances and declarations
What to declare and your duty-free limits
$500 duty-free goods allowance
Goods you bring as personal luggage up to a value of $500 are exempt from taxes. Above this amount, duties and a 7% VAT tax may apply.
Declare cash over $10,000
Cash is allowed in any amount, but you must declare anything over $10,000 including traveler's checks and bonds. This is for control purposes only, you will not be taxed on it.
Digital customs declaration, required
Complete the Declaración de Viajero online up to 72 hours before arrival. You will need your QR code at immigration. Take a screenshot in case your phone battery dies at the airport.
Prescription medications
Keep all pills in original pharmacy bottles with a formal doctor's letter. Bring only enough for your exact stay duration. Failure to do this can result in confiscation as suspected contraband.
No pooling allowances between travelers
Customs allowances are strictly per person. Couples cannot combine limits, even if one person is carrying nothing. One form per family is required.
Caught with undeclared items?
Items are confiscated immediately. Fines range from 10–15% of the item's value for minor infractions, payable in USD cash at the customs office before you are released.
At the airport, Tocumen PTY
Practical tips for a smoother experience
Arrive 3 hours early, not optional
Long walking distances inside the terminal, slow security lines and frequent last-minute gate changes are a reality at PTY. Three hours is not an exaggeration.
Do not buy drinks after first security
Flights to the US go through a second full security check at the boarding gate. Any liquids bought after the first checkpoint, even from duty-free, will be confiscated.
Phone charging is extremely difficult
This is one of the most serious and universal complaints at PTY. Charging stations are very scarce and almost always crowded with a queue. Bring a fully charged power bank, it is essential.
Airport prices are very high
A bottle of water can cost up to $7. A fast-food meal can exceed $20. Duty-free shopping is better value. Eat and drink before arriving at the terminal.
100% smoke-free airport
Smoking is strictly prohibited inside the terminals and in all outdoor areas near entrances, parking lots, and stops. This is actively enforced.
Not a comfortable place to sleep
There are no designated rest areas. Most seats have fixed armrests preventing lying down. The environment is noisy with very strong air conditioning. VIP lounges open 24h are a better option if your budget allows.
Free emergency clinic, with caveats
There is a free emergency clinic on level 100 of Terminal 1. However, traveler reports note very slow response times in serious emergencies. Do not rely on it for critical situations.
No airport luggage lockers
The airport has no traditional storage lockers. Use third-party services like Qeepl nearby, starting at $3.59/day, if you need to store bags during a layover.
Domestic flights, 12 kg limit
Total baggage allowance on domestic Panamanian flights is 12 kg (26.5 lbs.) including carry-on. The Bocas del Toro route allows up to 14 kg.
Lost items and baggage issues
Lost and found and delayed baggage
Lost an item at the airport?
Contact the Lost and Found office at +507 238 2938 or email objetosextraviados@tocumenpanama.aero. You can also submit an online report ↗.
Checked baggage didn't arrive?
Go immediately to your airline's counter ↗ in the arrivals area. Do not leave the airport before filing a report, this is essential for any compensation claim.
