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Guide to Services and Amenities at Tocumen Airport
On paper, Tocumen Airport offers a full range of services designed to meet the needs of the modern traveler. However, the actual experience of passengers often tells a different story. This guide breaks down the available services, contrasting the official offerings with the operational reality you will find during your time at the airport, so you know exactly what to expect and how to prepare.
Frequently Asked Questions about Airport Services
Is it easy to find a place to charge your phone?
No, it is extremely difficult. This is one of the most universal complaints. Charging stations are scarce, often occupied, and worse, many of them do not work. Do not count on being able to charge your devices easily.
Are there water fountains to refill my water bottle?
Although they exist, travelers consistently report that the water fountains are disconnected or out of service throughout much of the airport. Many perceive this as a strategy to force the purchase of bottled water at very high prices.
Is the free WiFi sufficient for a long layover?
No. The free WiFi service is limited to only one hour. After that period, you will have to pay fees that users consider expensive. If you have a long layover and need a connection, be prepared to pay or use your mobile data.
If I need a wheelchair, is the service reliable?
The experience is mixed. While some passengers receive adequate assistance, there are numerous reports of poor service, a lack of available staff, and, in particular, an unhelpful attitude from the drivers of the electric transport carts.
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Smart Traveler's Manual: The Reality of the Services
- Your Energy Survival Kit: The lack of functional outlets is a critical problem. Bringing a fully charged power bank is not a suggestion, it is a necessity if you depend on your devices.
- The Hydration Strategy: Don't rely on the water fountains. If you need water, you will have to buy it. Keep in mind that if your flight has a second security check at the gate, you will be forced to discard it.
- Planned Connectivity: Before your free hour of WiFi runs out, download maps, boarding passes, or any crucial information. Don't expect to be able to connect easily later without paying.
- Proactive Assistance: If you need special assistance, be persistent and proactive. Contact your airline well in advance and, once at the airport, do not hesitate to ask for help at the information desks if the service does not show up.
Critical Points of the User Experience
Charging Points and Water Fountains
The lack of functional basic infrastructure is the most serious and recurring complaint. Travelers express enormous frustration at the inability to perform two such simple actions as charging a device or refilling a water bottle. The general perception is that these deficiencies are not accidental, but are intended to encourage consumption in the airport shops.
Restroom Cleaning and Maintenance
User Experience:
The cleanliness of the restrooms is very inconsistent. Reports of dirty toilets, lack of toilet paper, and empty or broken soap dispensers are abundant. While some areas may be in good condition, the overall experience is one of poor maintenance for an airport of its category.
Internet and Financial Services
- Free Wi-Fi: Available through the "Airport_Tocumen" network. The service is limited to 1 free hour.
- Paid WiFi Rates: USD 4.00 for 1 additional hour, USD 6.00 for 2 hours, USD 10.00 for 4 hours, or USD 15.00 for the full day.
- ATMs: Available from Scotiabank, Banistmo, Davivienda, Global Bank, Banco Panamá, Caja de Ahorros, and Banco Nacional de Panamá.
- Currency Exchange (RedPlus): Open from 6:00 am to 9:00 pm, with locations in the public area and the duty-free zone.
- Bank Branch (Banco Nacional de Panamá): Located on level 100 of T1, open Monday to Friday from 8:00 am to 3:00 pm.
User Experience:
The "one hour free" WiFi policy is universally criticized for being insufficient and a tactic to sell a paid service considered expensive. Travelers with long layovers feel particularly disadvantaged by this limitation.
Assistance and Special Services
- Passengers with Reduced Mobility: The airport has elevators, ramps, accessible restrooms, and reserved parking.
- Lost and Found: You can contact the office at +507 238 2938 (7:00 am - 11:00 pm) or fill out an online form. The offices are on level 100 of T1 and on the connecting bridge between terminals.
User Experience:
Experiences with the assistance service are polarized. While some passengers are grateful for the help received, others report a serious lack of staff, delays, and an unempathetic attitude, especially from the operators of the electric carts, who have been accused of ignoring passengers who clearly needed help.
Health and Wellness
- Medical Emergencies: There is a free emergency clinic on level 100 of T1, next to the car rental area, with medical staff and ambulances available.
- Nursing Room: Located opposite gate 137 (T1), available 24 hours.
- Pet Relief Area: Located opposite gate 130 (T1), open 24 hours and free to use.
- Massage Chairs: Available in Terminal 1 (after security), they operate with coins or a credit card.
User Experience:
Although the medical emergency service is listed as an available resource, it is important to note that there has been at least one very serious user report of an extremely slow response to a cardiac emergency, which raises concerns about its efficiency in critical moments.
Additional Spaces
- Chapel: Located in the international area of Terminal 1, with mass on Thursdays (10:00 am) and Sundays (12:00 pm).