Copa Airlines Graduates 65 New Aeronautical Technicians from ATA Academy in Panama
Copa Airlines celebrated the graduation of 65 new aircraft maintenance technicians from its Aeronautical Technicians Academy (Academia de Técnicos Aeronáuticos – ATA). This new cohort of professionals integrates directly into the airline’s operations after completing a comprehensive theoretical and practical training program in aircraft systems inspection and maintenance, strengthening the carrier’s in-house technical capacity as it introduces new aircraft and expands operations.
Strengthening Technical Talent and Diversity in the Industry
The work of maintenance technicians is essential to keeping the fleet airworthy and operational. During the program, students receive instruction across several specialized domains of aeronautical engineering and maintenance. Within this class of 65 graduates:
- Powerplant Specialization: A total of 21 technicians specialized in powerplant maintenance, a critical segment for sustaining fleet availability.
- Female Representation: The graduating class included 10 women, accounting for 15% of the group and highlighting the growing integration of women into the profession.
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“Behind every aircraft that takes off is the work of highly trained technicians, responsible for ensuring that the aircraft meets all required conditions for flight. At Copa, we continuously require professionals with this caliber of training, and through ATA, we are developing that talent right here in Panama with hands-on experience and knowledge tailored to our operational realities. For these young professionals, it represents an opportunity to build a specialized career with a strong future; for the country, it reinforces Panama’s technical aviation capabilities,” said Rafael Samudio, Vice President of Technical Operations at Copa Airlines.
Operational Impact at the Tocumen International Airport Hub
Currently, nearly 90% of Copa Airlines’ fleet maintenance work is executed in Panama, concentrated at its Maintenance Center located at Tocumen International Airport. Increased flight volumes and upcoming aircraft deliveries will drive higher demand for specialized technical personnel in the coming years.
Since its establishment in 2014, the Aeronautical Technicians Academy has trained 269 professionals, a significant portion of whom are currently part of the airline’s maintenance workforce.
Training Program Structure
ATA’s technical training model is distinguished by its accessibility and regulatory alignment:
- Duration: Between two and four years, depending on the selected track.
- Certification: Prepares students to perform maintenance and inspection tasks under national and international civil aviation regulations.
- Funding: Training is 100% scholarship-funded by Copa Airlines through the Fundación Despega, eliminating tuition costs for students.
- Additional Benefits: Each participant receives a monthly stipend of $350 USD, along with coverage for transportation, insurance, uniforms, and educational materials.
To broaden talent acquisition nationwide, Copa Airlines maintains strategic partnerships with the Don Bosco Technical Institute and the Specialized Higher Technical Institute (ITSE) through programs focused on aircraft maintenance.
Upcoming Enrollment
Copa Airlines confirmed that enrollment for the Aeronautical Technicians Academy is now open for cohorts beginning classes in February 2027. Applicants can review technical requirements and begin the application process via the airline’s official portal under the Careers section.
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