Colombia, Costa Rica, and Panama Experience Travel Turmoil as Avianca and LATAM Airlines Suspend 8 Flights, Leaving Passengers Stranded at El Dorado, Tocumen, Juan Santamaria, and Other Airports

Published on
September 20, 2025

Colombia, Costa Rica, and Panama are facing significant travel disruptions as Avianca and LATAM Airlines suspend 8 flights across key routes. These cancellations, along with 23 delays from Avianca and 17 delays from LATAM Colombia, have left passengers stranded at major airports, including El Dorado, Tocumen, and Juan Santamaria, creating widespread chaos and frustration. The suspension of these flights is causing a ripple effect, affecting not only local travelers but also international connections. Passengers are experiencing long delays and uncertainty, with many uncertain about alternative travel arrangements. The situation highlights the challenges that arise when airlines face operational issues, impacting the flow of passengers and tourism across these countries. With busy airports like El Dorado and Tocumen being directly affected, travelers are urged to check their flight status regularly and seek assistance from the airlines. This unprecedented disruption has made it clear how critical smooth flight operations are for maintaining travel stability in the region.

Affected Cities and Airports

In Colombia, passengers are facing disruptions at El Dorado International Airport in Bogotá (BOG / SKBO), Matecana International Airport in Pereira (PEI / SKPE), Palonegro Airport in Bucaramanga (BGA / SKBG), and Jose Maria Cordova International Airport in Medellín (MDE / SKRG). In Costa Rica, travelers are impacted at Juan Santamaria International Airport in San José (SJO / MROC). In Panama, Tocumen International Airport in Panama City (PTY / MPTO) is also experiencing delays and cancellations, further complicating the travel situation for many passengers.

Flight Cancellations: Avianca

Flight Cancellations: LATAM Colombia

Affected Routes

From El Dorado International Airport in Bogotá (BOG / SKBO) to Juan Santamaria International Airport in San José (SJO / MROC), and Tocumen International Airport in Panama City (PTY / MPTO). Another route from Juan Santamaria International Airport in San José (SJO / MROC) back to El Dorado International Airport in Bogotá (BOG / SKBO) is also affected. Additionally, Matecana International Airport in Pereira (PEI / SKPE) to El Dorado International Airport in Bogotá (BOG / SKBO) and Palonegro Airport in Bucaramanga (BGA / SKBG) to El Dorado International Airport in Bogotá (BOG / SKBO) are among the disrupted routes. Finally, the Jose Maria Cordova International Airport in Medellín (MDE / SKRG) to El Dorado International Airport in Bogotá (BOG / SKBO) is also experiencing disruptions.

Impact on Passengers and Major Airports

The disruption has had a profound impact on key airports across Colombia, Costa Rica, and Panama. El Dorado International Airport in Bogotá, one of the busiest in South America, has been at the center of the chaos. Thousands of passengers were left waiting at the airport, unsure of when their flights would be rescheduled or whether they would be able to board their connecting flights. Tocumen International Airport in Panama City and Juan Santamaria International Airport in San José, Costa Rica, were also affected, as they are major hubs for flights operated by both Avianca and LATAM.

What Passengers Can Do

For passengers affected by the disruptions, checking flight status regularly is crucial. Both Avianca and LATAM have advised passengers to monitor their websites or mobile apps for real-time updates on flight cancellations and delays. The airlines have also urged travelers to contact their customer service departments for assistance with rebooking or compensation.

Additionally, passengers are encouraged to check with their travel insurance providers to see if they are eligible for any reimbursement due to the cancellations. Many travel insurance policies offer coverage for unexpected flight cancellations, which may help mitigate some of the costs associated with this disruption.

What to Do if Your Flight Gets Cancelled: A Quick Guide

Flight cancellations can be frustrating, but knowing the right steps to take can help minimize stress. Here’s what you can do if you find yourself in this situation:

Stay Updated
Monitor your email, phone, and the airline’s app for rebooking confirmation or further announcements.

Stay Calm and Check for Updates
As soon as you learn your flight is canceled, stay calm and check for updates. Many airlines will notify you via text, email, or their app. Visit the airline’s website for real-time updates on the situation.

Contact the Airline
Reach out to the airline’s customer service either in person at the airport or over the phone. If you’re at the airport, head to the service desk. If you’re not, try calling or using the airline’s online chat system to avoid waiting in long queues.

Know Your Rights
Familiarize yourself with the airline’s policies regarding cancellations. Many airlines offer rebooking options or compensation, especially if the cancellation is within their control. In the EU, for example, passengers are entitled to compensation under certain conditions.

Consider Alternative Flights
Ask the airline about the next available flight. If you can’t find a suitable option, consider booking a new flight through another airline, or check for other forms of transport like trains or buses.

The disruptions caused by Avianca and LATAM Colombia airlines are a stark reminder of how sensitive the travel industry can be to operational issues like fuel shortages and weather-related disruptions. The ripple effects of these cancellations and delays have left thousands of passengers stranded at major airports, adding to the frustration of an already strained travel industry.

As the situation continues to unfold, passengers are advised to stay informed and take proactive measures to ensure they can rebook or adjust their travel plans. Meanwhile, both Avianca and LATAM must work quickly to resolve these issues and restore normal operations to ensure the smooth flow of air traffic in the region.

Source: FlightAware