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.
- Convenient Location: The airport is highly praised for its close proximity to popular all-inclusive resorts in the Playa Blanca and Decameron areas, with transfers often taking as little as 5-10 minutes. This allows travelers to quickly reach their vacation destinations, bypassing the hustle of the capital.
- Efficient Departure Processing: Some travelers have noted efficiency during passport checks and processing for departure.
- Cleanliness and Charging Stations: Despite other facility concerns, some positive feedback mentions the airport's cleanliness and the availability of charging stations.
- Transportation Options: Taxis, shared shuttle services, and private car rentals are readily available, providing various options for onward travel. Car rental agencies are also located within the airport.
- Lengthy Customs and Immigration: A recurring and significant complaint is the "atrocious" wait times at customs and immigration, with some travelers reporting delays of over an hour for a single plane. Travelers are also required to undergo fingerprinting and photographing upon arrival.
- Limited and Poorly Maintained Terminal Facilities: Many travelers report that the terminal can be "ridiculously hot" due to a lack of sufficient air conditioning. There are also complaints about out-of-order restrooms and toilets that do not flush. Amenities like food stands or shops in the waiting area are often described as limited or non-existent.
- Baggage Handling and Security Issues: Some reviews include serious allegations of employees ransacking luggage, with items like perfume being stolen and bags arriving soaked and damaged.
- Lack of Shelter for Boarding: Passengers have noted having to walk outside to board planes, even in pouring rain, due to a lack of covers.
- Airport Tax and Confiscated Items: Travelers have reported an airport tax of $35.25 USD per person, payable only in cash upon departure. Additionally, water bottles have been confiscated by staff, with limited or no water available for purchase inside security.
Bottom line: While Scarlett Martinez International Airport offers unparalleled convenience for travelers heading to Panama's Pacific coast resorts, prospective visitors should be prepared for potential challenges with arrival procedures, including long customs lines and basic terminal conditions. Arranging transportation in advance and allowing ample time for airport processes, especially on arrival, is highly recommended.
Routes from RIH
3 nonstop destinations · 2 airlines.
Airlines at RIH
2 carriers operate scheduled departures.
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Airport routes
Scarlett Martinez International Airport (RIH) offers 5 flight routes operated by 2 airlines. Major carriers include WestJet, Air Transat and others. Popular destinations from Río Hato include Montreal-Trudeau, Toronto Pearson Int'l, Quebec/Jean Lesage Int'l.
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Common questions about RIH
Quick answers, straight from the schedule data.
How many destinations have nonstop flights from RIH?
Scarlett Martinez International Airport has 5 scheduled routes to 3 destinations in 1 countries, operated by 2 airlines.
Which airlines fly from Scarlett Martinez International Airport?
2 carriers operate scheduled departures, including WestJet, Air Transat.
Where is Scarlett Martinez International Airport located?
Scarlett Martinez International Airport is located in Río Hato, PA, at an elevation of 105 ft. Its IATA code is RIH and ICAO code is MPSM.