Enrique Malek International Airport guide

Enrique Malek International Airport (ICAO MPDA) serves David, the capital of Chiriquí Province in western Panama. It lies on the south side of the city, about 4 kilometres from downtown, at an elevation of 27 metres.

The field was built in 1941 under an agreement between the United States and Panama. During World War II it was known as David Field, or San José Field, and served as an auxiliary to Howard Field. US Army Air Forces bombardment units used it for training and reconnaissance missions as part of Panama Canal defence.

Today the airport has one asphalt runway, 04/22, which measures 2,600 metres. Work from 2010 lengthened it from 2,100 metres. The Panamanian legislature approved a US$12 million improvement fund covering the runway, fencing, security, baggage claim and terminal work. The old terminal was demolished and replaced with a new building that handles international flights, and car rental desks operate there.

Scheduled service is thin. Copa Airlines flies to Panama City-Tocumen, and Air Panama flies to Panama City-Gelabert. Both treat David as a focus city. Tocumen S.A. owns the airport.