Rio Hato (Scarlett Martinez International)

Rio Hato (Scarlett Martinez International). Source: Kupi.com AI

Welcome to Scarlett Martinez International Airport (RIH) — the sunny gateway to Panama’s "Pacific Riviera". This unique aviation hub, located in Rio Hato, allows travelers to land just a few minutes’ drive from the country’s best beach resorts, bypassing the hustle and bustle of the capital. From a former military airfield, it has transformed into a modern and welcoming terminal where the holiday mood begins immediately after stepping off the plane.

Features and Advantages of the Airport

The main "highlight" of Scarlett Martinez Airport is its engineering solution: the runway passes directly over the Pan-American Highway, for which a special tunnel was built. This makes the airport recognizable and unique from an architectural perspective. However, the main advantage for tourists is its incredible proximity to popular all-inclusive hotels in the Playa Blanca and Decameron areas; transfers to the lobby often take no more than 5-10 minutes.

The airport terminal is compact, ensuring fast passport control and baggage claim without the queues typical of major hubs. Thanks to its specialization in tourist charters, a more relaxed atmosphere prevails here. Takeoff and landing over the ocean offer passengers breathtaking views of the coastline, serving as an excellent start or end to a holiday.

To ensure your journey through Rio Hato Airport goes smoothly, save these useful contacts. Please note that the airport is managed by Tocumen S.A., so some contact details may be general for all airports under their management.

• Official Website: Current information about Scarlett Martinez Airport (RIH) can be found on the official website of the management company Tocumen S.A. in the regional airports section: www.tocumenpanama.aero.
• Information Desk Phone: For general inquiries, you can call (+507) 993-2016. The main contact center of the management company is also available: (+507) 238-2700.
• Airport Address: Carretera Panamericana, Río Hato, provincia de Coclé, Panamá.
• Email: For official inquiries, it is recommended to use the contact form on the website or the general email address info@tocumenpanama.aero.
• Social Media: It is convenient to follow updates and news on the official pages of Tocumen S.A., for example, on X (Twitter) and Instagram: @tocumenaero.
• Lost Luggage Information: In case of lost luggage, you must first contact your airline's representative. If you have left personal belongings within the terminal, contact the lost and found service at: objetos.extraviados@tocumenpanama.aero.
• Passenger Support Service: For assistance and consultations, use the phone numbers listed above or the airport's official online resources.

Scarlett Martinez International Airport (RIH), located in the Rio Hato area, is the main aerial gateway to the popular beach resorts of the Pacific coast of Panama, such as Playa Blanca, Farallon, and Decameron. Although the airport serves the region of the city of Penonomé, it is located approximately 30 minutes away by car. There are several ways to get to the airport, and the choice depends on your budget, convenience, and point of departure.

Public Transport. The most budget-friendly method is intercity buses operating along the Pan-American Highway. You need to board a bus heading towards Panama City or David and ask the driver to stop at the turnoff for Rio Hato or the airport. From the highway to the terminal, you will need to walk for about 15-20 minutes or take a short taxi ride. The bus fare is very affordable and usually costs around 2–5 USD. This option is suitable for travelers without large luggage. There is no direct rail or metro connection to the airport.

Taxi and Transfer. A taxi is a more comfortable and faster option. Cars can be found in both Penonomé and the resort areas. It is strongly recommended to agree on the fare in advance, as taximeters are not always used. A trip from the center of Penonomé will take about 30-40 minutes, and the cost will be approximately 25-40 USD. The most convenient method for tourists staying at Rio Hato hotels is a pre-booked transfer, which many resorts offer to their guests. Ride-hailing apps also operate in the region, but their availability may be lower than in the capital.

Car Rental. If you plan to actively explore the region, renting a car is the best solution. It provides maximum freedom of movement. Rental company desks can be found both at the airport itself and in major cities. Getting to the airport is easy via the main Pan-American Highway. Travel time from Panama City is approximately 1.5–2.5 hours, depending on traffic conditions, which can be busy.

Airport Parking. For those arriving in their own or rented vehicle, Scarlett Martinez Airport provides parking facilities. It is suitable for both short stops to drop off passengers and long-term storage of the vehicle during your trip. Given the size of the airport, finding a parking space is usually not difficult.

Scarlett Martinez International Airport (RIH) in Rio Hato is a modern and compact aviation hub distinguished by a simple and clear structure. This significantly facilitates navigation for all travelers, even those visiting for the first time.

The main feature of the airport is the presence of one passenger terminal, which serves both domestic and international flights, predominantly charters. Thanks to this, you do not have to worry about transferring between different buildings — all procedures from check-in to boarding the plane take place in one location. Departure and arrival zones are clearly separated for passenger convenience.

The terminal layout is intuitive. The Departure Zone is located on one level and includes check-in counters, a security checkpoint, and a small waiting area with boarding gates. The Arrival Zone is also located in the same building and consists of passport control, baggage claim belts, and customs inspection. Due to the airport's small size, it is virtually impossible to get lost, and signs in Spanish and English will help you orient yourself.

Completing all formalities at Rio Hato Airport usually proceeds quite quickly. Check-in and security screening typically take less than an hour. Nevertheless, it is recommended to arrive at the airport well in advance — 2-3 hours before an international flight departure, especially during the peak tourist season, to avoid unforeseen delays and calmly complete all pre-flight stages.

The history of Scarlett Martinez International Airport (RIH) is a vivid example of the transformation of a military facility into a modern tourism hub. Its story began long before it started receiving charter flights with tourists heading to the beaches of Panama.

The airfield was built in 1942 by the United States during World War II and was originally named Rio Hato Army Air Base. Its primary mission was the protection of the strategically important Panama Canal from potential attacks. After the war, the base was transferred to the control of the Panamanian National Guard and remained an important military facility for the country for decades.

A key event in the base's history was the military action in December 1989 (Operation Just Cause), when the airfield in Rio Hato became one of the main targets for American forces. Following these events and the subsequent reorganization of Panama's armed forces, the base gradually fell into disrepair.

A new era for Rio Hato began in the 2010s, when the government of Panama decided on a radical reconstruction of the abandoned airfield. The goal was to create a modern aerial gateway for the rapidly developing resorts on the Pacific coast in the Coclé province, near the city of Penonomé. During the massive modernization, a new runway, a modern terminal, and all necessary infrastructure were built.

The grand opening of the renovated airport took place in 2013. It received a new name — Scarlett Martinez International Airport. This name was given in honor of Scarlett Martinez, a co-pilot of a Panamanian airline who tragically died in a plane crash in 1992. Today, the airport successfully fulfills its mission, receiving international charter flights and contributing to the development of tourism in the region.

Scarlett Martinez Airport (RIH) in Rio Hato, despite its modest size, provides passengers with all necessary services for a comfortable wait for their flight. It is primarily oriented towards tourists arriving at the resorts of the Pacific coast of Panama, so the infrastructure here is compact and functional.

Within the terminal, you will find several cafes and snack bars where you can have sandwiches, pastries, and coffee before departure. There are Duty Free shops offering a standard range of perfumes, beverages, sweets, and cigarettes, as well as souvenir stalls where you can buy memorable gifts with Panamanian flair.

Passengers have access to free Wi-Fi, allowing them to stay connected. Charging stations for mobile devices are provided in the waiting lounge. For financial transactions, the airport has ATMs and currency exchange points, although it is recommended to exchange the main amount in advance, as the rate may be less favorable.

For passengers with children, mother and child rooms are equipped in the restroom areas. Travelers with reduced mobility can count on staff assistance, as well as the availability of ramps and specially equipped restrooms. In case of necessity, you can contact the medical point for first aid.

There are generally no separate VIP lounges or business centers at the airport. There are also no hotels directly within the terminal building, however, numerous large resort hotels are located just a 5-15 minute drive away, which are easily accessible by taxi or transfer.

When planning a departure from Scarlett Martinez International Airport (RIH) in Penonomé, it is important to consider that this is a relatively small airport serving mainly tourist and charter flights. Consequently, the choice of dining establishments here is limited, but finding options for a snack before the flight is still possible.

Inside the airport building, you will not find large restaurants, but there are several small cafes and snack bars. They are located both in the general area before passport control (landside) and in the secure departure zone after screening (airside). The assortment mainly consists of ready-made meals and snacks: sandwiches, pastries, chips, sweets, as well as hot and cold drinks, including water, juices, and soda. This is an excellent option if you need a quick bite.

Although the establishments do not specialize in the national cuisine of Panama, you can try the famous Panamanian coffee here. Sometimes local snacks like empanadas (filled pastries) are available for sale. For a full lunch or dinner, it is strongly recommended to eat beforehand at your hotel or at one of the restaurants in the nearby resorts, for example in Playa Blanca, as the choice for this at the airport itself is too small.

Passengers with special dietary needs (vegetarians, vegans, those on a gluten-free diet) will find it difficult to find specialized dishes. The most reliable option would be to look for packaged salads, fruit slices, or nuts. Prices at the airport are typically higher than in the city, which is standard practice. The opening hours of establishments depend directly on the flight schedule — they open a few hours before departure and may be closed at other times.

To ensure your journey through Scarlett Martinez International Airport (RIH) in Penonomé goes smoothly, use these tips. This airport serves primarily charter and tourist flights, so knowing some nuances will help save time and reduce stress.

Arrival Time at the Airport. Although Rio Hato Airport is not as large as the capital's airport, it is recommended to arrive in advance. For international flights, arrive 2.5–3 hours before departure, and for domestic flights — 1.5–2 hours. This will give you enough time to calmly complete all procedures, especially during the peak tourist season.

Check-in and Security. To save time, complete online check-in for your flight if your airline offers this option. This will allow you to head straight to the baggage drop counter or, if you are traveling light, to the security screening zone. When passing through security control, prepare liquids in advance (in containers up to 100 ml, packed in a transparent bag) and remove large electronic devices, such as laptops and tablets, from your hand luggage.

Choosing a Seat on the Plane. Do you want to enjoy views of the Pacific coast of Panama during takeoff or landing? Choose a window seat. If comfort and the ability to move freely are more important to you, your choice is an aisle seat. Many airlines allow you to select a seat during booking or online check-in, sometimes for an additional fee.

Hand Luggage. Standard international rules apply here: sharp objects, flammable substances, and liquids in containers larger than 100 ml are prohibited. Always check the exact hand luggage and baggage allowance rules on your airline's website, as they may differ.

Connecting Passengers. If you have a connecting flight, follow the "Transfer" or "Connections" signs. Clarify with the airline representative whether you need to collect and re-check your luggage. Typically, you will need to pass through security screening again during a transfer.

Customs Control. When entering the country, be prepared to present your passport and a completed customs declaration. Honestly declare all goods subject to declaration. Customs services often pay special attention to food products of plant and animal origin — their import may be restricted.

Saving Time and Money.

• Book a transfer from the airport in advance to avoid inflated taxi prices upon arrival.
• Bring an empty water bottle with you and fill it after passing security — this will save money on drinks.
• If you need to exchange currency, compare rates at the airport and in the city — often the rate in the city is more favorable.

Flight Delays. In case of a flight delay or cancellation, first contact your airline representative for information on the flight status and your rights (provision of meals, drinks, or hotel accommodation). Keep all receipts for necessary expenses — they may be needed to claim compensation.