Panama will be Emirates first gateway destination in Central America

Emirates has revealed its plans to launch services to Panama City, beginning February 1st, 2016.

The new service will be the longest non-stop flight in the world, at a record 17 hours 35 minutes in the westbound direction.

The new route will also be Emirates’ first gateway destination in Central America.

Service to Panama City, Panama’s capital and largest city by population, will commence with a daily flight operated by a Boeing 777-200LR aircraft in a three-class layout - eight in First, 42 in Business, and 216 in Economy.

The aircraft can carry up to 15 tonnes of cargo.

Key imports to the country include pharmaceuticals, machinery products, iron/steel rods, and electronics.

Service to Panama City will operate through Tocumen International Airport.

Both a vibrant metropolis and gateway to tropical destinations, Panama City is also the economic and financial centre of the country with the major industries being international banking, commerce, and tourism.

Ideally located between North and South America, as well as the Atlantic and Pacific Oceans, Panama City has developed an unrivalled transportation and communication network.

“Panama City will be our first destination gateway in Central America, providing a convenient option for our passengers travelling from or through our global hub in Dubai and onward to destinations throughout Central America, the Caribbean and the northern part of South America,” said sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed Al Maktoum, chairman, Emirates Airline & Group.

“We’re also pleased to be the only commercial airline to offer a daily, First Class service to travellers on what will be the world’s longest non-stop flight.”