⚖️ Pros and Cons of Tocumen Airport: A Detailed View

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✅ Pros

1. Modern and efficient Terminal 2

Terminal 2 is universally praised for its modern design, spaciousness, and cleanliness. Its high ceilings, wide corridors, and greater natural light offer a "first-world" atmosphere. Travelers perceive it as a substantial improvement in comfort and infrastructure compared to the older terminal.

2. Variety of shops and duty-free

The airport functions like a large shopping mall, with a huge diversity of stores ranging from luxury brands to electronics and souvenirs. While this variety is a plus for last-minute shopping, travelers warn that the term "duty-free" does not guarantee good prices, often being more expensive than in shops outside the airport.

3. Exceptional accessibility with the Metro

This is one of the most highlighted strengths. The direct connection to Line 2 of the Panama Metro is an unbeatable transportation alternative: it costs less than a dollar, is fast, safe, and allows you to bypass city traffic. The ability to pay directly with contactless credit cards makes it extremely convenient for tourists.

4. Availability of multiple VIP Lounges

The existence of several VIP lounges accessible with memberships like Priority Pass is an advantage for those looking to escape the hustle and bustle of the terminal. They offer a quieter space, comfortable seating, unlimited drinks, and showers. However, this "pro" comes with a big asterisk: the food quality is universally rated as abysmal.

5. Signage and flight information screens

While general signage can be a weak point, travelers acknowledge that the flight information screens are well-distributed and constantly updated, which is crucial given the frequent gate changes. Signage to boarding gates and main areas is generally adequate.

6. Wide range of complementary services

Tocumen offers a full range of practical services, including multiple ATMs from different banks, currency exchange offices, a post office, and a lost and found service. The presence of a free medical clinic is also a valuable service.

7. Connection to various modes of transport

In addition to the Metro, the airport offers good connectivity. Official taxis are instantly available at the exit (though with high prices), and apps like Uber or DiDi work well, offering a cheaper alternative if you're willing to walk to the parking lot.

8. Generally swift arrival processes

Despite complaints about slowness during peak hours, many travelers report that the immigration, customs, and baggage claim processes can be surprisingly fast and efficient, allowing for a smooth exit from the airport.

9. Availability of car rental agencies

The concentration of numerous car rental agencies directly at the airport offers a wide range of options for travelers. This convenience is a plus, although it comes with the significant caveat of the industry's problematic business practices at this location.

10. Good flight frequency and connectivity

As the "Hub of the Americas," Tocumen's main strength is its vast network of flights. The high frequency of connections through Copa Airlines offers flexibility in itineraries and multiple alternatives in case of delays or cancellations.

❌ Cons

1. Old and poorly maintained Terminal 1

Terminal 1 clearly shows its age. Travelers complain about poorly lit areas, dirty or stained carpets and seats, and poor maintenance in the restrooms, with frequent lack of soap or paper. The experience contrasts sharply with the modernity of T2.

2. Very inconsistent and often poor customer service

This is one of the most severe criticisms. Numerous travelers describe the staff (security, airlines, and other services) as apathetic, rude, and unhelpful. The feeling of not being welcome or being treated with disdain is an all-too-common experience.

3. Internet limited to one hour and expensive paid WiFi

In an international connections hub, offering only one hour of free WiFi is considered unacceptable by most travelers. The fees to extend the service are high, leaving passengers with long layovers disconnected unless they pay.

4. Abusive prices for food, drinks, and shops

This is a universal pain point. Prices are considered exorbitant, from a bottle of water to a full meal. The general perception is that of a captive market where the consumer is taken advantage of, a criticism that also extends to many duty-free shops.

5. The frustrating double security check

The need to go through a second security screening at the boarding gate, especially for flights to the U.S., is one of the biggest operational complaints. It forces passengers to discard liquids purchased just minutes before in the same terminal, a measure that passengers find illogical and infuriating.

6. Predatory practices in car rentals

The car rental experience is overwhelmingly negative. Travelers report a pattern of "scams" with undisclosed mandatory insurance that doubles or triples the cost of the reservation, along with disproportionate security deposits.

7. Critical lack of power outlets and comfortable rest areas

It is almost impossible to find a functional outlet to charge devices, a major failure for a transit airport. Additionally, most seats are hard with fixed armrests, preventing travelers from resting properly during long waits.

8. Poor signage for key services

Despite having good signage to the gates, travelers report a frustrating lack of signs to find important services like the Metro station, the shuttle stops between terminals, or even some restrooms, which leads to confusion and wasted time.

9. Lack of nighttime food options

For a hub that operates 24/7, the closure of almost all restaurants at night is a major flaw. Passengers with overnight layovers find themselves with no options to eat until the early morning hours.

10. Limited and expensive healthy food options

Although there are notable exceptions like Avocat Organic Deli, the overall offering of healthy food is scarce. Fast food predominates, and the available options tend to have even higher prices, making it difficult to eat a balanced meal without spending a fortune.