Pedasí Airport

Replacement and Modernization. The old airstrip (PA-0042) was a basic facility that became inadequate for the increasing tourism and development in the Pedasí district. The Panamanian government invested in a new, larger, and more modern airport nearby to accommodate larger aircraft (such as the ATR 42), improve safety, and support the region's economic growth. The old airport was subsequently decommissioned as it was made redundant.

The site is permanently closed to all air traffic. The original runway is still clearly visible but is in a state of disuse and disrepair. Satellite imagery shows that the southern portion of the former runway has been repurposed, with some reports indicating it has been used as a practice area for a local driving school. The northern end is largely overgrown, and some small structures have been built on the former airport grounds.

For many years, this simple airstrip was the primary air link to the town of Pedasí, a relatively remote fishing and agricultural community on Panama's Azuero Peninsula. It primarily served general aviation, private planes, and small charter flights that were essential for the nascent tourism industry and local business. It played a key role in opening up the area before it became a major international tourist destination, but its limited length and basic facilities constrained growth.

Zero. There are no plans or prospects for reopening the old Pedasí Airport. All air services and future aviation investments for the region are directed to the new and fully operational Capitán Justiniano Montenegro Airport (IATA: PDM, ICAO: MPPE), which is located approximately 4.5 km (2.8 miles) to the south-southwest of the old site.