Introducing the “Dreams” Business Class
When Copa Airlines added Boeing 737 MAX aircraft to its fleet, it unveiled the ‘Dreams’ business class seat, a game-changer for single-aisle planes. With flights lasting between 4 to 7 hours, these unique lie-flat seats offer a premium level of comfort typically seen on widebody jets. The fully-flat bed configuration is ideal for restful overnight travel, making “Dreams” a standout feature in the single-aisle business class market.
Flying from Santiago
Our journey began with a flight from Santiago to Washington D.C., connecting through Panama City. Business class passengers enjoy access to the Primeclass Pacifico lounge, offering a peaceful retreat that complemented the premium flying experience.
Aboard Copa’s 737 MAX
The Dreams seats, arranged in a 2-2 configuration, live up to their name. The fully-flat seat design provided excellent comfort, especially for our late-night departure. While not the most private arrangement, the seats offer ample legroom and stylish finishes. The in-flight experience was further enhanced by a 16-inch personal screen with an adequate selection of entertainment options.
Pro Tip: To guarantee a ‘Dreams’ seat, double-check that your flight is operated by a 737 MAX when booking.
Unexpected Mid-Flight Turnaround
Despite the premium comforts, our flight took an unexpected turn when the aircraft had to return to Santiago due to a suspected vibration issue. Fortunately, maintenance resolved the matter quickly, and we resumed our journey. This hiccup highlighted Copa’s commitment to safety, even if it meant a three-hour delay. As it turned out, our flight coincided with the airline’s announcement as “the most punctual airline in Latin America” by Cirium. Oh, the irony!
Panama City’s New Terminal 2
One silver lining of the delay was extra time to explore Panama City’s Tocumen International Airport. The new Terminal 2, opened in 2022, is a significant upgrade, offering spacious modern amenities. Copa’s lounge in Terminal 2 impressed us with trendy decor and comfortable seating, although the food options were underwhelming. The location also provides fantastic views of the aircraft ramp, a treat for aviation enthusiasts.
The Final Verdict
While a mid-flight diversion added a layer of drama, Copa Airlines’ “Dreams” seats and the impressive new Panama City Terminal 2 were worth the experience. The airline continues to focus on enhancing passenger comfort while maintaining its reputation for reliability.
Pros:
- Fully-flat “Dreams” seats on medium-haul routes
- Affordable premium fares compared to competitors
- The upgraded Tocumen Terminal 2
- Option for extended Panama City stopovers
- Consistently strong on-time performance record
Cons:
- Potential for equipment swaps, leaving passengers without a flatbed seat
- Limited food offerings in Copa Clubs
- Some flights still operate out of the older Terminal 1