All-Boeing operator Copa Airlines is the latest carrier to scale back its network amid aircraft delivery delays. The Panamanian airline planned to take delivery of 11 new 737 Max aircraft in 2024 but has since reduced expectations into the low single digits.
According to ch-aviation, Copa will suspend flights between Panama City and Mexico City-Filipe Angeles; Tulum, Mexico; Armenia; and Santiago de los Caballeros, Dominican Republic, due to the Boeing woes.
The airline’s CEO, Pedro Heilbron, noted that Copa hopes to return to these markets by year-end 2025. During a recent earnings call, Heilbron added that all of these destinations have an “alternative airport around the corner,” which Copa also serves.
The carrier expects a fleet count of 112 aircraft by the end of 2024, down from previous expectations.
Extending Older Aircraft
Copa initially planned to retire two 737-700s, but company leadership now plans to extend these aircraft through at least 2025.
“So we are going to stay with those aircraft to make up for delayed Boeing deliveries,” Heilbron said.
The nine 737-700s are among the oldest in the airline’s fleet with an average age of 21 years old.
Ryan founded AirlineGeeks.com back in February 2013 and has amassed considerable experience in the aviation sector. His work has been featured in several publications and news outlets, including CNN, WJLA, CNET, and Business Insider. During his time in the industry, he’s worked in roles pertaining to airport/airline operations while holding a B.S. in Air Transportation Management from Arizona State University along with an MBA. Ryan has experience in several facets of the industry from behind the yoke of a Cessna 172 to interviewing airline industry executives. Ryan works for AirlineGeeks’ owner FLYING Media, spearheading coverage in the commercial aviation space.
Credit: flyingmag.com
