Scarlett Martinez International Airport (RIH)

Scarlett Martinez International Airport (IATA: RIH, ICAO: MPSM), located in Río Hato, serves as a key gateway for tourists visiting Panama’s Pacific coast resorts. Its primary function is to provide direct access to popular destinations in the Coclé Province, reducing travel time from the nation's main hub in Panama City. The airport has a significant military history, originally constructed during World War II as the Río Hato Army Air Base by the United States for the defense of the Panama Canal. After being transferred to Panamanian control, it was used by local armed forces and was a key site during the 1989 U.S. invasion. In 2011, the government initiated a major renovation to convert the facility into a modern commercial airport, which was inaugurated in 2013. It was named in honor of a young Panamanian co-pilot who died in a 2003 aviation accident.

Situated directly on the Pan-American Highway in the town of Río Hato, the airport is approximately 120 kilometers (75 miles) southwest of Panama City. The drive between the airport and the capital typically takes around two hours, though this can vary with traffic conditions. Most international travelers arriving at RIH are part of vacation packages and utilize pre-arranged shuttle services provided by their resorts. Other options for accessing the airport or nearby hotels include private transfers, rental cars, and a limited supply of local taxis. Its strategic location makes it a convenient entry point for the beach communities of Playa Blanca, Farallón, and Buenaventura.

Operations at Scarlett Martinez are primarily focused on seasonal international charter and scheduled flights, catering to the tourist high season. Airlines such as Sunwing Airlines and Air Transat have historically provided direct service from Canadian cities. The airport is not a significant hub for domestic travel. The facility consists of a single, modern terminal building designed for efficiency. Inside, passengers will find basic amenities including check-in desks, immigration and customs processing, a baggage claim area, and a departure lounge. Food and beverage options are limited to small snack bars, and a few retail and duty-free shops offer essential items and souvenirs. The scale of the facilities is consistent with the airport's role in serving a specific, targeted tourism market.

For a smooth travel experience, passengers departing from Scarlett Martinez International are advised to arrive at least two to three hours before their scheduled international flight. It is highly recommended to arrange ground transportation in advance, as on-demand options may not be readily available, especially outside of peak flight arrival and departure times. Given the limited dining and shopping inside the terminal, travelers may prefer to eat a meal before arriving at the airport. Because the airport's operational hours are often aligned with scheduled flight activity, services and staffing can be minimal between flights. Travelers connecting to other parts of Panama should plan for road travel along the Pan-American Highway.