Direct Flights To Panama Soon To Depart From O'Hare
CHICAGO (CBS) -- You can soon be able to fish in one of the world's most famous canals, tour the western hemisphere's first transcontinental railroad, and visit the largest Chinese community in Central America – and the trip will only require boarding one plane.
The Chicago Department of Aviation on Tuesday announced new nonstop service from O'Hare International Airport to Panama.
Chicago is the first Midwest port for Copa Airlines, which will offer the nonstop flights from O'Hare to Tocumen International Airport in Panama City. The airline says the flight will also be the fastest means to fly from Chicago to many other parts of Latin America, such as cities in Chile and Colombia.
Expansion of international air service is part of Mayor Rahm Emanuel's aim to spur local job growth and economic development, Aviation Department Commissioner Rosemarie Andolino said.
Service to Panama begins in December, allowing Chicagoans to spend Christmas on the isthmus.
The department expects the Panama flights to bring approximately $70 million in yearly economic activity to the Chicago area.
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