Japan’s All Nippon Airways (ANA) is studying the launch of nonstop flights between Tokyo and Panama City, a route that could create a new connection option between Asia and Central and South America.
The possibility gained momentum after a delegation from ANA visited Tocumen International Airport earlier this month to evaluate airport infrastructure and operational requirements for long-haul flights.
According to Panamanian media reports, ANA executives and Boeing technicians inspected runway capabilities and facilities needed to support aircraft such as the Boeing 777-300ER, which is commonly used on ultra long-haul international routes.
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Representatives from Panama’s Civil Aviation Authority, Foreign Ministry and Copa Airlines also participated in the meetings.
The project would depend on bilateral negotiations involving air traffic rights between Panama and Japan, as well as technical and commercial evaluations. A partnership with Copa Airlines could become a key part of the operation.
The Panamanian carrier operates its “Hub of the Americas” at Tocumen Airport, connecting more than 80 destinations across North, Central and South America and the Caribbean.
Such cooperation could allow ANA to offer one-stop access from Tokyo to multiple destinations in Latin America through Copa’s network, reducing dependence on traditional connections through the Middle East or North American hubs.
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Nonstop flights between Asia and Latin America remain limited compared with other intercontinental markets, particularly in Central America.
ANA has not formally announced plans to launch the route or disclosed a potential start date.
