Quarterlytics / Industrials / Airlines, Airports & Air Services / Copa Holdings

Copa Holdings

cpa · NYSE Industrials
Claim this profile
Ticker cpa
Exchange NYSE
Sector Industrials
Industry Airlines, Airports & Air Services
Employees 5001-10,000
← All annual reports
FY2019 Annual Report · Copa Holdings
Sign in to download
Loading PDF…
As filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on April 8, 2020 

UNITED STATES 
SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION 
Washington, D.C. 20549 

FORM 20-F 

☐ REGISTRATION STATEMENT PURSUANT TO SECTION 12(b) OR (g) OF THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE 

ACT OF 1934 

OR 

☒ ANNUAL REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(d) OF THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934 

FOR THE FISCAL YEAR ENDED DECEMBER 31, 2019 

OR 

☐ TRANSITION REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(d) OF THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 

1934 

OR 

☐ SHELL COMPANY REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(d) OF THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE 

ACT OF 1934 

Commission file number: 001-32696 

COPA HOLDINGS, S.A. 

(Exact name of Registrant as Specified in Its Charter) 

Not Applicable 
(Translation of Registrant’s Name Into English) 

Republic of Panama 
(Jurisdiction of Incorporation or Organization) 

Avenida Principal y Avenida de la Rotonda, Costa del Este 
Complejo Business Park, Torre Norte 
Parque Lefevre, Panama City 
Panama 
(Address of Principal Executive Offices) 

Raul Pascual 
Complejo Business Park, Torre Norte 
Parque Lefevre, Panama City, Panama 
+507 304 2774 (Telephone) 
+507 304 2535 (Facsimile) 
(Registrant’s Contact Person) 

Securities registered or to be registered pursuant to Section 12(b) of the Act 

Title of Each Class:
Class A Common Stock, without par value

Trading Symbol(s)
CPA

Name of Each Exchange On Which Registered
New York Stock Exchange

Securities registered or to be registered pursuant to Section 12(g) of the Act: 
None 

Securities for which there is a reporting obligation pursuant to Section 15(d) of the Act: 
None 

Indicate the number of outstanding shares of each of the issuer’s classes of capital or common stock as of the close of the period covered 

by the annual report: At December 31, 2019, there were outstanding 42,275,981 shares of common stock, without par value, of which 
31,337,856 were Class A shares and 10,938,125 were Class B shares. 

Indicate by check mark if the registrant is a well-known seasoned issuer, as defined in Rule 405 of the Securities Act.    ☒  Yes    ☐  No 

If this report is an annual or transition report, indicate by check mark if the registrant is not required to file reports pursuant to 

Section 13 or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934.    ☐  Yes    ☒  No 

Indicate by check mark whether the registrant (1) has filed all reports required to be filed by Section 13 or 15(d) of the Securities 
Exchange Act of 1934 during the preceding 12 months (or for such shorter period that the registrant was required to file such reports), and 
(2) has been subject to such filing requirements for the past 90 days.    ☒  Yes    ☐  No 

Indicate by check mark whether the registrant has submitted electronically every Interactive Data File required to be submitted pursuant 

to Rule 405 of Regulation S-T (§232.405 of this chapter) during the preceding 12 months (or for such shorter period that the registrant was 
required to submit such files).    ☒  Yes    ☐  No 

Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is a large accelerated filer, an accelerated filer, a non-accelerated filer, or an emerging 
growth company. See definition of “large accelerated filer”, “accelerated filer” and “emerging growth company” in Rule 12b-2 of Exchange 
Act.: 

Large Accelerated Filer

Non-accelerated Filer

☒

☐

Accelerated Filer

Emerging Growth Company

☐

☐

If an emerging growth company that prepares its financial statements in accordance with U.S. GAAP, indicate by check mark if the 
registrant has elected not to use the extended transition period for complying with any new or revised financial accounting standards provided 
pursuant to Section 13(a) of the Exchange Act.  ☐

Indicate by check mark which basis of accounting the registrant has used to prepare the financial statements included in this filing: 

U.S. GAAP  ☐

International Financial Reporting Standards as issued
by the International Accounting Standards Board  ☒

Other  ☐

If “Other” has been checked in response to the previous question, indicate by check mark which financial statement item the registrant 

has elected to follow: 

☐  Item 17    ☐  Item 18 

If this is an annual report, indicate by check mark whether the registrant is a shell company (as defined in Rule 12b-2 of the Exchange 

Act).    ☐  Yes    ☒  No 

Table of Contents 

Introduction

Market Data

Presentation of Financial and Statistical Data

Special Note About Forward-Looking Statements

PART I

Item 1. Identity of Directors, Senior Management and Advisers

Item 2. Offer Statistics and Expected Timetable

Item 3. Key Information

Item 4. Information on the Company

Item 4A. Unresolved Staff Comments

Item 5. Operating and Financial Review and Prospects

Item 6. Directors, senior management and employees

Item 7. Major Shareholders and Related Party Transactions

Item 8. Financial Information

Item 9. The Offer and Listing

Item 10. Additional Information

Item 11. Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures about Market Risk

Item 12. Description of Securities Other than Equity Securities

PART II

Item 13. Defaults, Dividend Arrearages and Delinquencies

Item 14. Material Modifications to the Rights of Security Holders and Use of Proceeds

Item 15. Controls and Procedures

Item 16. Reserved

Item 17. Financial Statements

Item 18. Financial Statements

Item 19. Exhibits

i 

ii

ii

ii

iii

1

1

1

1

23

40

41

53

60

62

63

64

68

69

71

71

71

71

75

Introduction 

In this annual report on Form 20-F, unless the context otherwise requires, references to “Copa Airlines” are to Compañía Panameña de 

Aviación, S.A., the consolidated operating entity, “Copa Colombia” refers to AeroRepública, S.A., “Wingo” refers to the low-cost business model 
offered by AeroRepública and La Nueva Aerolínea, S.A., and references to “Copa”, “Copa Holdings”, “we”, “us” or the “Company” are to Copa 
Holdings, S.A. and its consolidated subsidiaries. References to “Class A shares” refer to Class A shares of Copa Holdings, S.A. 

This annual report contains terms relating to operating performance that are commonly used within the airline industry and are defined as 

follows: 

•

•

•

•

•

•

•

•

•

•

•

•

“Aircraft utilization” represents the average number of block hours operated per day per aircraft for the total aircraft fleet. 

“Available seat miles” or “ASMs” represents the aircraft seating capacity multiplied by the number of miles the seats are 
flown. 

“Average stage length” represents the average number of miles flown per flight segment. 

“Block hours” refers to the elapsed time between an aircraft leaving an airport gate and arriving at an airport gate. 

“Load factor” represents the percentage of aircraft seating capacity that is actually utilized (calculated by dividing revenue 
passenger miles by available seat miles). 

“Operating expense per available seat mile” represents operating expenses divided by available seat miles. 

“Operating revenue per available seat mile” represents operating revenues divided by available seat miles. 

“Passenger revenue per available seat mile” represents passenger revenues divided by available seat miles. 

“Revenue passenger miles” represents the number of miles flown by revenue passengers. 

“Revenue passenger kilometers” represents the number of kilometers flown by revenue passengers. 

“Revenue passengers” represents the total number of paying passengers (including all passengers redeeming frequent flyer 
miles and other travel awards) flown on all flight segments (with each connecting segment being considered a separate flight 
segment). 

“Yield” represents the average amount one passenger pays to fly one mile. 

Market Data 

This annual report contains certain statistical data regarding our airline routes, our competitive position, market share and the market size 

of the Latin American airline industry. This information has been derived from a variety of sources, including the International Air Transport 
Association, the U.S. Federal Aviation Administration, the International Monetary Fund and other third-party sources, governmental agencies or 
industry or general publications. Information for which no source is cited has been prepared by us on the basis of our knowledge of Latin American 
airline markets and other information available to us. The methodology and terminology used by different sources are not always consistent, and data 
from different sources are not readily comparable. In addition, sources other than us use methodologies that are not identical to ours and may produce 
results that differ from our own estimates. Although we have not independently verified the information concerning our competitive position, market 
share, market size, market growth or other similar data provided by third-party sources or by industry or general publications, we believe these sources 
and publications are generally accurate and reliable. 

Presentation of Financial and Statistical Data 

Included in this annual report are our audited consolidated statement of financial position as of December 31, 2019 and 2018, and the 

related audited consolidated statements of profit or loss, comprehensive income or loss, changes in equity and cash flows for the years ended 
December 31, 2019, 2018 and 2017. Our audited consolidated financial statements for the years ended December 31, 2018 and 2017 have been restated 
to reflect the application of IFRS 16. The details of the changes in accounting policies and impacts due the application of IFRS 16 are disclosed in 
note 5 of our annual consolidated financial statements. 

ii 

The Company’s consolidated financial statements have been prepared in accordance with International Financial Reporting Standards or 

“IFRS”, as issued by the International Accounting Standards Board, or “IASB”. 

Unless otherwise indicated, all references in the annual report to “$” or “dollars” refer to U.S. dollars. 

Certain figures included in this annual report have been subject to rounding adjustments. Accordingly, figures shown as totals in certain tables 
may not be an arithmetic aggregation of the figures that precede them. 

Special Note About Forward-Looking Statements 

This annual report includes forward-looking statements, principally under the captions “Risk Factors”, “Business Overview” and 

“Operating and Financial Review and Prospects”. We have based these forward-looking statements largely on our current beliefs, expectations and 
projections about future events and financial trends affecting our business. Many important factors, in addition to those discussed elsewhere in this 
annual report, could cause our actual results to differ substantially from those anticipated in our forward- looking statements, including, among other 
things: 

•

•

•

•

•

•

•

•

•

•

•

•

•

•

•

general economic, political and business conditions in Panama and Latin America and particularly in the geographic markets 
we serve; 

the recently events related to the coronavirus (“COVID-19”) outbreak; 

our management’s expectations and estimates concerning our future financial performance and financing plans and 
programs; 

our level of debt and other fixed obligations; 

demand for passenger and cargo air service in the markets in which we operate; 

competition; 

our capital expenditure plans; 

changes in the regulatory environment in which we operate; 

changes in labor costs, maintenance costs, fuel costs and insurance premiums; 

changes in market prices, customer demand and preferences and competitive conditions; 

cyclical and seasonal fluctuations in our operating results; 

defects or mechanical problems with our aircraft; 

our ability to successfully implement our growth strategy; 

our ability to obtain financing on commercially reasonable terms; and 

the risk factors discussed under “Risk Factors” beginning on page 7. 

The words “believe”, “may”, “will”, “aim”, “estimate”, “continue”, “anticipate”, “intend”, “expect” and similar words are intended to 

identify forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements include information concerning our possible or assumed future results of operations, 
business strategies, financing plans, competitive position, industry environment, potential growth opportunities, the effects of future regulation and the 
effects of competition. Forward-looking statements speak only as of the date they were made, and we undertake no obligation to update publicly or to 
revise any forward-looking statements after the date of this annual report because of new information, future events or other factors. In light of the risks 
and uncertainties described above, the forward- looking events and circumstances discussed in this annual report might not occur and are not guarantees 
of future performance. 

Considering these limitations, you should not place undue reliance on forward-looking statements contained in this annual report. 

iii 

PART I 

Item 1. Identity of Directors, Senior Management and Advisers 

Not applicable. 

Item 2. Offer Statistics and Expected Timetable 

Not applicable. 

Item 3. Key Information 

A. Selected Financial Data 

The following table presents summary consolidated financial and operating data for each of the periods indicated. Our consolidated 

financial statements are prepared in accordance with IFRS, as issued by the IASB and are stated in U.S. dollars. You should read this information in 
conjunction with our consolidated financial statements included in this annual report and the information under “Item 5. Operating and Financial 
Review and Prospects” appearing elsewhere in this annual report. 

The summary consolidated financial information as of December 31, 2019, and for the years ended December 31, 2019, 2018 and 2017 

have been derived from our audited consolidated financial statements included elsewhere in this annual report. The summary consolidated financial 
information for the years ended December 31, 2016 and 2015 have been derived from our audited consolidated financial statements for those years (not 
included herein), which have not been restated to reflect the application of IFRS 15 and IFRS 16. 

Year Ended December 31,
(in thousands of dollars, except share and per share data and
operating data)
2017

2018

2016

2019

2015

STATEMENT OF PROFIT OR LOSS DATA
Operating revenue:
Passenger revenue
Cargo and mail revenue
Other operating revenue
Total operating revenues
Operating expenses:
Fuel
Wages, salaries, benefits and other employees expenses
Passenger servicing
Airport facilities and handling charges
Sales and distribution
Maintenance, materials and repairs
Depreciation, amortization and impairment(1) 
Flight operations
Other operating and administrative expenses
Total operating expenses
Operating profit
Non-operating income (expense):
Finance cost
Finance income
Gain (loss) on foreign currency fluctuations
Net change in fair value of derivatives
Other non-operating income (expense)
Total non-operating income (expense), net
Profit (loss) before taxes
Income tax expenses
Net profit (loss)

2,612,605
62,460
32,343
2,707,408

696,249
450,439
102,103
181,959
210,623
127,562
371,424
102,806
118,090
2,361,255
346,153

2,587,389
62,483
27,755
2,677,627

765,781
443,287
104,346
186,422
210,158
110,710
465,187
108,437
123,737
2,518,065
159,562

2,444,251
55,290
22,245
2,521,786

572,746
415,147
99,447
171,040
200,256
131,181
277,523
101,647
114,415
2,083,402
438,384

2,148,501
53,989
16,696
2,219,186

528,996
370,190
86,329
159,771
193,837
121,781
167,894
88,188
237,199
1,954,185
265,001

2,185,465
56,738
11,507
2,253,710

603,760
373,631
84,327
148,078
188,961
111,178
150,548
86,461
254,132
2,001,076
252,634

(57,432) 
24,405
(15,408) 

—  
(4,279) 
(52,714) 
293,439
(46,437) 
247,002

(50,825) 
23,628
(9,398) 
—  
(239) 
(36,834) 
122,728
(34,530) 
88,198

(51,096) 
17,939
6,218
2,801
(2,337) 
(26,475) 
411,909
(49,310) 
362,599

(37,024) 
13,000
13,043
111,642

(3,982) 
96,679
361,680
(38,271) 
323,409

(33,155) 
25,947
(440,097) 
(11,572) 
(1,632) 
(460,509) 
(207,875) 
(32,759) 
(240,634) 

1 

(1)

Depreciation, amortization and impairment includes a non-cash loss of $89.3 million in 2019, related to the measurement upon held for 
sale obligation of the Embraer 190 fleet and spare parts inventory and $188.6 million in 2018 related to the impairment of our Embraer 
190 fleet as well as General Electric CF34 spare engines. 

851,135
129,781
120,006
1,234,443
463,274
2,532,402
4,357,378
938,183
1,934,906
114,743

STATEMENT OF FINANCIAL POSITION DATA
Total cash, cash equivalents and short-term investments
Accounts receivable, net
Asset held for sale
Total current assets
Purchase deposits for flight equipment
Total property and equipment
Total assets
Long-term debt
Total equity
Capital stock
CASH FLOW DATA
Net cash from operating activities
Net cash (used in) from investing activities
Net cash used in financing activities
OTHER FINANCIAL DATA
Underlying net profit(2)
Adjusted EBITDA(3)
Operating margin(4)
Weighted average shares used in computing net income per share (basic) 42,483,048
Weighted average shares used in computing net income per share 

336,346
697,890

784,883
(192,868) 
(545,334) 

12.8% 

722,358
116,054
40,330
1,059,922
474,060
2,698,131
4,441,905
975,283
1,796,594
108,594

943,900
115,641
—  
1,194,631
413,633
2,614,216
4,422,263
876,119
1,850,938
101,449

814,689
116,100
—  
1,069,391
250,165
2,623,682
3,846,113
961,414
1,631,824
93,384

684,948
105,777
—  
907,585
243,070
2,453,751
3,518,574
1,055,183
1,390,520
85,845

543,013
(149,596) 
(430,191) 

835,506
(578,159) 
(312,930) 

594,590
(179,909) 
(248,625) 

316,863
32,384
(357,466) 

276,822
615,112

359,798
722,589

190,224
553,598

6.0% 

17.4% 

11.9% 

210,342
(50,119) 

11.2% 

42,456,032

42,418,773

42,358,091

43,861,084

(diluted)

Earnings (Loss) per share (basic)
Earnings (Loss) per share (diluted)
Dividends per share paid
Total number of shares at end of period
OPERATING DATA
Revenue passengers carried(5)
Revenue passenger miles(6)
Available seat miles(7)
Load factor(8)
Total block hours(9)
Average daily aircraft utilization(10)
Average passenger fare
Yield(11)
Passenger revenue per ASM(12)
Operating revenue per ASM(13)
Operating expenses per ASM (CASM)(14)
Departures
Average daily departures
Average number of aircraft
Airports served at period end
On-Time Performance(15) 
Stage Length(16)

42,483,048
5.81
5.81
2.60
42,275,981

42,456,032
2.08
2.08
3.48
42,195,811

42,418,773
8.55
8.55
2.52
42,123,766

42,363,171
7.64
7.63
2.04
42,050,481

43,868,864

(5.49) 
(5.49) 
3.36
41,955,227

15,424
21,303
25,113

84.8% 

431,749
11.3
169.4
12.26
10.40
10.78
9.40
131,819
361.1
104.8
80
91.4% 
1,288

2 

15,168
21,529
25,817

83.4% 

444,851
12.0
170.6
12.02
10.02
10.37
9.75
132,498
363.0
101.6
80
89.8% 
1,321

14,201
19,914
23,936

83.2% 

419,610
11.5
172.1
12.27
10.21
10.54
8.70
126,963
347.8
100.4
75
86.8% 
1,282

12,870
17,690
22,004

80.4% 

388,058
10.6
166.9
12.15
9.76
10.09
8.88
123,098
337.3
99.9
73
88.4% 
1,213

11,876
16,309
21,675

75.2% 

388,355
10.8
184.0
13.40
10.08
10.40
9.23
122,588
335.9
98.3
73
90.6% 

1,236

(2)

Underlying net profit for the year ended on December 31, 2019 and 2018 represents net income (loss) minus the sum of Embraer 190 
impairment. 

Underlying net profit for the years ended on December 31, 2017, 2016 and 2015 represents net income (loss) minus fuel hedge 
mark-to-market gain/(loss), and devaluation and translation losses in Venezuela and Argentina. 

Underlying net profit is presented because the Company uses this measure to determine annual dividends. However, underlying net profit 
should not be considered in isolation, as a substitute for net profit (loss) prepared in accordance with IFRS as issued by the IASB or as a 
measure of our profitability. The following table presents a reconciliation of our net profit (loss) to underlying net profit for the specified 
periods. 

Net profit (loss)
Fuel hedge mark to market loss/(gain)
Venezuela devaluation
Argentina devaluation
Impairment of non-financial assets
Underlying net profit

2019
247,002
—  
—  
—  
89,344
336,346

2018
88,198
—  
—  
—  
188,624
276,822

2017
362,599

(2,801) 
—  
—  
—  
359,798

2016
323,409
(111,642) 
(21,543) 

—  
—  
190,224

2015
(240,634) 
11,572
432,503
6,901
—  
210,342

(3)

Adjusted EBITDA represents net profit (loss) plus the sum of interest expense, income taxes, depreciation, amortization and impairment 
minus finance income. Adjusted EBITDA is presented as supplemental information because we believe it is a useful indicator of our 
operating performance and is useful in comparing our operating performance with other companies in the airline industry. However, 
adjusted EBITDA should not be considered in isolation, as a substitute for net profit (loss) prepared in accordance with IFRS as issued by 
the IASB or as a measure of our profitability. In addition, our calculation of adjusted EBITDA may not be comparable to other companies’ 
similarly titled measures. The following table presents a reconciliation of our net profit (loss) to adjusted EBITDA for the specified 
periods. 

Net profit (loss)
Finance Cost
Income Taxes
Depreciation, amortization and impairment
Finance income
Adjusted EBITDA

2019
247,002
57,432
46,437
371,424
(24,405) 
697,890

2018
88,198
50,825
34,530
465,187
(23,628) 
615,112

2017
362,599
51,096
49,310
277,523
(17,939) 
722,589

2016
323,409
37,024
38,271
167,894
(13,000) 
553,598

2015
(240,634) 
33,155
32,759
150,548
(25,947) 
(50,119) 

(4)
(5)

(6)
(7)
(8)

Operating margin represents operating profit as a percentage of operating revenues. 
Total number of paying passengers (including all passengers redeeming frequent flyer miles and other travel awards) flown on all flight 
segments, expressed in thousands. 
Number of miles flown by revenue passengers, expressed in millions. 
Aircraft seating capacity multiplied by the number of miles the seats are flown, expressed in millions. 
Percentage of aircraft seating capacity that is actually utilized. Load factors are calculated by dividing revenue passenger miles by 
available seat miles. 

3 

(9)

The number of hours from the time an airplane moves off the departure gate for a revenue flight until it is parked at the gate of the arrival 
airport. 

(10) Average number of block hours operated per day per aircraft for the total aircraft fleet. 
(11) Average amount (in cents) one passenger pays to fly one mile. 
(12)
(13)
(14)
(15)
(16)

Passenger revenues (in cents) divided by the number of available seat miles. 
Total operating revenues (in cents) divided by the number of available seat miles. 
Total operating expenses (in cents) divided by the number of available seat miles. 
Percentage of flights that arrive at the destination gate within fourteen minutes of scheduled arrival. 
The average number of miles flown per flight. 

a. Capitalization and Indebtedness 

Not applicable. 

b. Reasons for the Offer and Use of Proceeds 

Not applicable. 

c. Risk Factors 

Risks Relating to Our Company 

Failure to successfully implement our growth strategy may adversely affect our results of operations and harm the market value of our 
Class A shares. 

We intend to continue expanding our service to new markets as well as increasing the frequency of flights to the markets we currently 

serve. Achieving these goals allows our business to benefit from cost efficiencies resulting from economies of scale. We expect to have substantial cash 
needs as we expand, including cash required to fund aircraft acquisitions or aircraft deposits as we add to our fleet. If we do not have enough cash to 
fund such projects, we may not be able to successfully expand our route system, therefore, our future revenue and earnings growth would be limited. 

When we commence a new route, load factors tend to be lower than those on our established routes and our advertising and other 

promotional costs tend to be higher, which could result in initial losses that could have a negative impact on our results of operations as well as require a 
substantial amount of cash to fund. We also periodically run special promotional fare campaigns, particularly in connection with the opening of new 
routes. Promotional fares can have the effect of increasing load factors while reducing our yield on such routes during the period that they are in effect. 
The number of markets we serve and flight frequencies depend on our ability to identify the appropriate geographic markets upon which to focus and to 
gain suitable airport access in addition to route approval in the aforementioned markets. There can be no assurance that the new markets we enter will 
yield passenger traffic, at the expected fares, that is sufficient to make our operations in those new markets profitable. Any condition that would prevent 
or delay our access to key airports or routes, including limitations on the ability to process more passengers, the imposition of flight capacity 
restrictions, the inability to secure additional route rights under bilateral agreements or the inability to maintain our existing slots, flight banks and 
obtain additional slots, could constrain the expansion of our operations. 

The expansion of our business will also require additional skilled personnel, equipment and facilities. The inability to hire, train and/or 

retain pilots and other personnel or secure the required equipment and facilities efficiently, cost-effectively, and on a timely basis, could adversely affect 
our ability to execute our plans. It also could strain our existing management resources and operational, financial and management information systems 
to the point where they may no longer be adequate to support our operations, requiring us to make significant expenditures in these areas. Difficulties 
obtaining necessary equipment could also affect the expansion of our business. For example, the mandatory grounding of Boeing 737 MAX 9 aircraft 
has affected the delivery scheduled for 2019 and 2020. Due to the Boeing 737 MAX 9 aircraft grounding we have experienced a constraint in capacity 
growth. While we currently expect operation of our Boeing 737 MAX fleet, and deliveries of the Boeing 737 MAX 9 aircraft, to resume by the second 
half of 2020, further delays are possible. Considering these factors, we cannot ensure that we will be able to successfully establish new markets or 
expand our existing markets, and our failure to do so could have an impact on our business and results of operations, as well as the value of our Class A 
shares. 

4 

Our performance is heavily dependent on economic and political conditions in the countries in which we do business. 

Passenger demand is heavily cyclical and highly dependent on global, regional and country-specific economic growth, economic 

expectations and foreign exchange rate variations. We have been negatively impacted by poor economic performance in certain emerging market 
countries in which we operate, as well as by weaker Latin American currencies. For example, in 2018 we experienced a decrease of 1.9% in passenger 
revenue per available seat mile (PRASM) compared to 2017, mainly due to currency devaluation and the deteriorating demand environment in Brazil 
and Argentina. In addition, Venezuela has experienced difficult political conditions and declines in the rate of economic growth in recent periods as well 
as governmental actions that have adversely impacted businesses that operate there. The Company cancelled flights between Panama and Venezuela 
during April 2018, as a result of a temporary suspension of diplomatic and commercial relations between the two countries. Also, on May 15, 2019 the 
Homeland Security Department of the United States announced a suspension of all commercial passenger and cargo flights between United States and 
Venezuela. The U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) concurred with this determination and issued an order suspending all foreign air 
transportation for passengers or cargo to or from any airport in Venezuela. Any of the following developments (or a continuation or worsening of any of 
the following currently in existence) in the countries in which we operate could adversely affect our business, financial condition, liquidity and results of 
operations: 

•

•

•

changes in economic or other governmental policies, including exchange controls; 

changes in regulatory, legal or administrative practices; or 

other political or economic developments over which we have no control. 

Additionally, a significant portion of our revenues is derived from discretionary and leisure travel, which are especially sensitive to 

economic downturns and political conditions. An adverse economic and/or political environment, whether global, regional or in a specific country, 
could result in a reduction in passenger traffic, and leisure travel in particular, as well as a reduction in our cargo business, and could also impact our 
ability to raise fares, which in turn would materially and negatively affect our financial condition and results of operations. 

The cost of financing our aircraft may increase, which could negatively impact our business. 

We have historically been able to achieve favorable financing terms through commercial and US Export-Import bank guaranteed loans, 

sale-leasebacks and operating leases. In recent years, due to the fact that U.S. Export-Import Bank guaranteed loans have not been available, the 
Company has diversified its financing sources and obtained access to very competitive financing terms. Since 2014 our aircraft deliveries have been 
financed through a mix of sale-leasebacks and Japanese Operating Leases with Call Options (“JOLCO”). As of December 31, 2019, we had 
$828.8 million of outstanding indebtedness under JOLCO financing arrangements. 

We cannot ensure that we will be able to continue to raise financing from past sources, or from other sources, on terms comparable to our 

existing financing or at all. If the cost of such financing increases or we are unable to obtain such financing, we may be forced to incur higher than 
anticipated financing costs, which could have an adverse impact on the execution of our growth strategy and business. 

We have historically operated using a hub-and-spoke model and are vulnerable to competitors offering direct flights between destinations we 
serve and/or opening new hubs. 

The general structure of our flight operations follows what is known in the airline industry as a “hub-and-spoke” model. This model 

aggregates passengers by operating flights from a number of “spoke” origins to a central hub through which they are transported to their final 
destinations. In recent years, many traditional hub-and-spoke operators have faced significant and increasing competitive pressure from low-cost, 
point-to-point carriers on routes with sufficient demand to sustain point-to-point service. A point-to-point structure enables airlines to focus on the most 
profitable, high-demand routes and to offer greater convenience and, in many instances, lower fares. As demand for air travel in Latin America 
increases, some of our competitors have initiated non-stop service between destinations that we currently serve through our hub in Panama. 
Additionally, newer aircraft models, such as, Boeing 737 MAX and Airbus 320-NEO, allow nonstop flights in certain city pairs that could not be served 
with prior generation narrow-body aircraft and may bypass our hub. Airbus also recently announced they will launch the A321 XLR; a new model of the 
Airbus 320 family that will extend the range of the current Airbus 320 NEO allowing competitors to explore new competitive routes overflying our 
Hub, it is expected to be released on 2023. Competitors are also opening new international hubs, especially in Brazil. Competitive services, which 
bypass our hub in Panama, may be more convenient and possibly less expensive than our services and could significantly decrease demand for our 
service to those destinations. In December 2016, we launched a low-cost business model, Wingo, to diversify our offerings and to better compete with 
other low-cost carriers, or “LCCs,” in the market. However, our traditional hub-and-spoke model remains our primary operational model and we believe 
that competition from point-to-point carriers will be directed towards the largest markets that we serve and is likely to continue at this level or intensify 
in the future. As a result, the effect of competition on us could be significant and could have a material adverse effect on our business, financial 
condition and results of operations. 

5 

We may not realize benefits from Wingo, our low-cost business model. 

Wingo, our low-cost business model, which is operated by AeroRepública, S.A., utilizes four of our 737-800s, each configured with 186 

seats in a single class cabin. By 2020, we expect to incorporate a new Wingo operator, La Nueva Aerolínea S.A., which will be based in Panama and 
will initially operate one 737-800 from the Panama Pacífico International Airport outside of Panama City. 

During the last years we have successfully operated our low-cost business model, with better results than expected. Therefore, we decided 

to change the 737-700s fleet to 737-800s with a greater seat density and lower unitary costs which shall make stronger our competitive position. Even 
though we have gained knowledge regarding the low-cost business model, we have limited experience operating it and we may not be able to accurately 
predict its impact on our main line services. In particular, if demand for Wingo flights is not substantial, if our pricing strategy does not adequately align 
with our cost structure, if Wingo does not meet customer expectations or if demand for Wingo flights cannibalizes some of our main line flights, 
Wingo’s operations may have a negative impact on our reputation or our operating results. 

We may not realize benefits from our strategic alliances and other commercial relationships, including from our announced joint business 
agreement with United Airlines, Inc. (“UAL”) and Avianca Holdings (“Avianca”). 

We maintain a number of strategic alliances and other commercial relationships in many of the jurisdictions in which we operate. For example, we 

have been a Star Alliance member since June 2012, and we renewed our strategic alliance with UAL in May 2016. In addition, on November 30, 2018, 
we disclosed that we have entered into a three-way joint business agreement (“JBA”) with UAL and Avianca that is intended to cover our combined 
network between the United States and Latin America (except Brazil). We, UAL and Avianca intend to apply for regulatory approval of the JBA and an 
accompanying grant of antitrust immunity from the U.S. Department of Transportation and other relevant agencies. However, we can provide no 
assurances as to whether or when the parties will receive such approvals, and we do not plan to fully implement the JBA until we have received such 
approvals. The purpose of these alliances and relationships is to increase revenues by enhancing our network and offering our customers services that 
we could not otherwise offer. However, the intended benefits may not be realized, or may not outweigh the technological and other costs associated with 
any alliance or relationship. In addition, if any of our strategic alliances or commercial relationships deteriorates, or is terminated, our business, financial 
condition and operational results could be adversely affected. 

Our business is subject to extensive regulation which may restrict our growth, our operations or increase our costs. 

Our business, financial condition and operational results could be adversely affected if we or certain aviation authorities in the countries to 

which we fly fail to maintain the required foreign and domestic governmental authorizations necessary for our operations. In order to maintain the 
necessary authorizations issued by the Panamanian Civil Aviation Authority (the Autoridad de Aeronáutica Civil, or the “AAC”), the Colombian Civil 
Aviation Administration (the Unidad Administrativa Especial de Aeronáutica Civil, or the “UAEAC”), and other corresponding foreign authorities, we 
must continue to comply with applicable statutes, rules and regulations pertaining to the airline industry, including any rules and regulations that may be 
adopted in the future. In addition, Panama is a member state of the International Civil Aviation Organization, or “ICAO,” a United Nations specialized 
agency. ICAO coordinates with its member states and various industry groups to establish and maintain international civil aviation standards and 
recommended practices and policies, which are then used by ICAO member states to ensure that their local civil aviation operations and regulations 
conform to global standards. We cannot predict or control any actions that the AAC, the UAEAC, the ICAO or other foreign aviation regulators may 
take in the future, which could include restricting our operations or imposing new and costly regulations or policies. Also, our fares are subject to review 
by the AAC, the UAEAC, and the regulators of certain other countries to which we fly, any of which may in the future impose restrictions on our fares. 

We are also subject to international bilateral air transport agreements that provide for the exchange of air traffic rights between each of 

Panama and Colombia, and various other countries, and we must obtain permission from the applicable foreign governments to provide service to 
foreign destinations. There can be no assurance that existing bilateral agreements between the countries in which our airline operating companies are 
based and foreign governments will continue, or that we will be able to obtain more route rights under those agreements to accommodate our future 
expansion plans. Any modification, suspension or revocation of one or more bilateral 

6 

agreements could have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition and results of operations. The suspension of our permits to operate 
to certain airports or destinations, the cancellation of any of our provisional routes, the inability for us to obtain favorable take-off and landing rights at 
certain high-density airports or the imposition of other sanctions could also have a negative impact on our business. We cannot be certain that a change 
in a foreign government’s administration of current laws and regulations or the adoption of new laws and regulations will not have a material adverse 
effect on our business, financial condition and results of operations. 

We plan to continue to increase the scale of our operations and revenues by expanding our presence on new and existing routes. Our 
ability to successfully implement this strategy will depend upon many factors, several of which are outside our control or subject to change. These 
factors include the permanence of a suitable political, economic and regulatory environment in the Latin American countries in which we operate or 
intend to operate and our ability to identify strategic local partners. 

The most active government regulator among the countries to which we fly is the U.S. Federal Aviation Administration, or “FAA”. The 

FAA from time to time issues directives and other regulations relating to the maintenance and operation of aircraft that require significant expenditures. 
FAA requirements cover, among other things, security measures, collision avoidance systems, airborne wind shear avoidance systems, noise abatement 
and other environmental issues, and increased inspections and maintenance procedures to be conducted on older aircraft. On March 13, 2019, the FAA 
issued an emergency order prohibiting the operation of Boeing 737 MAX series airplanes by U.S. certificated operators. The FAA emergency order is 
still in place, and it has had an adverse impact on our capacity growth and therefore on our expansion plans. See “—If we fail to successfully operate 
new aircraft, in particular our new Boeing 737 MAX aircraft, our business could be harmed.” Additional new regulations continue to be regularly 
implemented by the U.S. Transportation Security Administration, or “TSA”, as well. As we continue to expand our presence on routes to and from the 
United States, we expect to continue incurring expenses to comply with the FAA’s and TSA’s regulations, and any increase in the cost of compliance 
could have an adverse effect on our financial condition and results of operations. 

Copa Airlines is authorized by the DOT to engage in scheduled and charter air transportation services, including the transportation of 
persons, property (cargo) and mail, or combinations thereof, between points in Panama and points in the United States and beyond (via intermediate 
points in other countries). Copa Airlines holds the necessary authorizations from the DOT in the form of a foreign air carrier permit, an exemption 
authority and statements of authorization to conduct our current operations to and from the United States. The exemption authority was granted by the 
DOT in February 1998 and was due to expire in February 2000. However, the authority remains in effect by operation of law under the terms of the 
Administrative Procedure Act pending final DOT action on the application we filed to renew the authority on January 3, 2000. There can be no 
assurance that the DOT will grant the application. Our foreign air carrier permit has no expiration date. A modification, suspension or revocation of any 
of our DOT authorizations or FAA operating specifications could have a material adverse effect on our business. 

The growth of our operations to the United States and the benefits of our code-sharing arrangements with UAL are dependent on Panama’s 
continued favorable safety assessment. 

The FAA periodically audits the aviation regulatory authorities of other countries. As a result of this inspection, each country is given an 

International Aviation Safety Assessment, or “IASA”, rating. In connection with its most recent assessment in 2018 and since April 2004, IASA has 
rated Panama as a Category 1 country, which means that Panama complies with the safety requirements set forth by ICAO. A 2015 ICAO study found 
significant safety deficiencies in Panama, but the country’s category was not downgraded. A 2017 ICAO study found no significant safety deficiencies 
in Panama. We cannot guarantee that the government of Panama and the AAC in particular, will continue to meet international safety standards, and we 
have no direct control over their compliance with IASA guidelines. If Panama’s IASA rating were to be downgraded in the future, it could prohibit us 
from increasing service to the United States and could affect our code-share arrangement with UAL. 

We are highly dependent on our hub at Panama City’s Tocumen International Airport. 

Our business is heavily dependent on our operations at our hub at Panama City’s Tocumen International Airport. Most of our Copa flights 
either depart from or arrive at our hub. Our operations and growth strategy is therefore highly dependent on its facilities and infrastructure, including the 
success of its multi-phase expansion projects, certain of which have been completed while others are underway and have experienced significant delays. 
For example, Terminal 2 has experienced delays since one of the contractors responsible for the construction, Norberto Odebrecht Construction, was 
subject to penalties in 2017 for its past practices related to project approvals. Terminal 2 started operating a few gates during the early part of 2019, but 
construction is ongoing and is expected to be completed during 2020. Due to the magnitude of the construction required for this new Terminal 2, we 
may experience logistical issues and/or be subject to further increases in passenger taxes and airport charges related to the financing of the construction. 

7 

In addition, the hub-and-spoke structure of our operations is particularly dependent on the on-time arrival of tightly coordinated groupings of 

flights (or banks) to ensure that passengers can make timely connections to continuing flights. Like other airlines, we are subject to delays caused by 
factors beyond our control, including air traffic congestion at airports, adverse weather conditions, power outages and increased security measures. 
Delays affect passengers, reduce aircraft utilization and increase costs, all of which in turn negatively affect our profitability. In addition, at its current 
utilization level, Tocumen International Airport has limited fuel storage capacity. In the event there is a disruption in the transport of fuel to the airport, 
we may be forced to suspend flights, or do tankering, until fuel levels are reestablished. A significant interruption or disruption in service or fuel at 
Tocumen International Airport could have a serious impact on our business, financial condition and operating results. Nevertheless, new fuel storage 
capacity, consisting of three 1 million-gallon tanks, were added to existing storage capacity during 2019. This addition resulted in an increase of airport 
fuel storage capacity from 1.5 million to 4.5 million gallons, which represents approximately seven days of fuel availability at current consumption 
levels. 

Tocumen International Airport is operated by a corporation that is owned and controlled by the government of the Republic of Panama. We 

depend on our good working relationship with the quasi-governmental corporation that operates the airport to ensure that we have adequate access to 
aircraft parking positions, landing rights and gate assignments for our aircraft to accommodate our current operations and future plans for expansion. 
The corporation that operates Tocumen International Airport does not enter into any formal, written leases or other agreements with airlines to govern 
rights to use the airport’s jet ways or aircraft parking spaces. Therefore, we would not have contractual recourse if the airport authority assigned new 
capacity to competing airlines, reassigned our resources to other aircraft operators, raised fees or discontinued investments in the airport’s maintenance 
and expansion. Any of these events could result in significant new competition for our routes or could otherwise have a material adverse effect on our 
current operations or capacity for future growth. 

We are exposed to increases in airport charges, taxes and various other fees and cannot be assured access to adequate facilities and landing 
rights necessary to achieve our expansion plans. 

We must pay fees to airport operators for the use of their facilities. Any additional fees or substantial increase in current airport charges, 

including at Tocumen International Airport, could have a material adverse impact on our results of operations. Passenger taxes and airport charges have 
increased in recent years, sometimes substantially. Certain important airports that we use may be privatized in the near future, which is likely to result in 
significant cost increases to the airlines that use these airports. We cannot ensure that the airports used by us will not impose, or further increase, 
passenger taxes and airport charges in the future, and any such increases could have an adverse effect on our financial condition and results of 
operations. 

Certain airports that we serve (or that we plan to serve in the future) are subject to capacity constraints and impose various restrictions, 

including slot restrictions during certain periods of the day, limits on aircraft noise levels, limits on the number of average daily departures and curfews 
on runway use. We cannot be certain that we will be able to obtain a sufficient number of slots, gates and other facilities at airports to expand our 
services in line with our growth strategy. It is also possible that airports not currently subject to capacity constraints may become so in the future. In 
addition, an airline must use its slots on a regular and timely basis or risk having those slots re-allocated to others. Where slots or other airport resources 
are not available or their availability is restricted in some way, we may have to amend our schedules, change routes or reduce aircraft utilization. Any of 
these alternatives could have an adverse financial impact on us. In addition, we cannot ensure that airports at which there are no such restrictions may 
not implement restrictions in the future or that, where such restrictions exist, they may not become more onerous. Such restrictions may limit our ability 
to continue to provide or to increase services at such airports. 

We have significant fixed financing costs and expect to incur additional fixed costs as we expand our fleet. 

The airline business is characterized by high leverage. We have significant fixed expenditures in connection with our operating leases and 
facility rental costs, and a significant portion of our property and equipment is pledged to secure indebtedness. For the year ended December 31, 2019, 
our finance cost totaled $57.4 million. At December 31, 2019, approximately 69.4% of our total indebtedness bore interest at fixed rates and the 
remainder was determined with reference to LIBOR. Most of our aircraft lease obligations bear interest at fixed rates. 

As of December 31, 2019, the Company had one purchase contract with Boeing which entails 65 firm orders of Boeing 737 MAX aircraft, 

agreed to be delivered between 2020 and 2025. The aircraft under this contract have an approximate value of $3.1 billion based on contractual 
obligations net of discounts and pre-delivery payments, including estimated amounts for contractual price escalation. We will require substantial capital 
from external sources to meet our future financial commitments. In addition, the acquisition and financing of these aircraft will likely result in a 
substantial increase in our leverage and fixed financing costs. A high degree of leverage and fixed payment obligations could: 

•

limit our ability in the future to obtain additional financing for working capital or other important needs; 

8 

•

•

impair our liquidity by diverting substantial cash from our operating needs to service fixed financing obligations; or 

limit our ability to plan for or react to changes in our business, in the airline industry or in general economic conditions. 

Any one of these factors could have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition and results of operations. 

Discontinuation, reform or replacement of LIBOR, or uncertainty related to the potential for any of the foregoing, may adversely affect us. 

On July 27, 2017, the Financial Conduct Authority (the authority that regulates LIBOR) announced that it intends to stop compelling 

banks to submit rates for the calculation of LIBOR after 2021. It is unclear whether new methods of calculating LIBOR will be established such that it 
continues to exist after 2021. The U.S. Federal Reserve, in conjunction with the Alternative Reference Rates Committee, is considering replacing U.S. 
dollar LIBOR with a newly created index, calculated based on repurchase agreements backed by treasury securities. It is not possible to predict the 
effect of these changes, other reforms or the establishment of alternative reference rates in the United Kingdom, the United States or elsewhere. 

If we fail to successfully operate new aircraft, in particular our new Boeing 737 MAX aircraft, our business could be harmed. 

We fly and rely on Boeing and Embraer aircraft. As of December 31, 2019 we operated a fleet of 88 Boeing aircraft and 14 Embraer 190 

aircraft. In 2020, we expect to take delivery of ten additional Boeing 737 MAX 9 aircraft. 

In the future we expect to continue incorporating new aircraft into our fleet. This is based on a variety of factors, including the 

implementation of our growth strategy. Acquisition of new aircraft involves a variety of risks relating to their ability to be successfully placed into 
service including: 

•

•

•

manufacturer’s delays in meeting the agreed upon aircraft delivery schedule; 

difficulties in obtaining financing on acceptable terms to complete our purchase of all of the aircraft we have committed to 
purchase; and 

the inability of new aircraft and their components to comply with agreed upon specifications and performance standards. 

In addition, we cannot predict the reliability of our new fleet as the aircraft matures. In particular, we cannot predict the reliability of the 

Boeing 737 MAX aircraft, powered by, Leap 1B engines, from CFM International, which first entered commercial service in May 2017. The LEAP 
engine was developed by Safran Aircraft Engines and GE through their joint company, CFM International, to power the next generation of single-aisle 
commercial jets. The LEAP-1B has been selected by Boeing as the exclusive power plant for the new 737 MAX single-aisle jetliner. 

Following the Ethiopian Airlines accident involving a Boeing 737 MAX 8 aircraft on March 10, 2019, we suspended operations of our 6 
Boeing 737 MAX 9 aircraft, after authorities in Panama and other countries grounded the 737 MAX fleet worldwide, during the investigation into the 
cause of the accident. We partially covered our operation, with other aircraft in our fleet, with significant cancellations and delays. Authorities in 
Panama and other countries in which we operate would lift the grounding after completing satisfactory testing and investigation. While we currently 
expect to resume operations of our Boeing 737 MAX fleet by the second half of 2020 after implementing regulatory requirements and determining that 
the fleet is safe for operation, further delays are possible. Boeing has announced that it will compensate all airlines impacted by the worldwide 
suspension of the Boeing MAX fleet operations. However, this compensation will only cover financial impact caused by the suspension of Boeing MAX 
operations. We cannot estimate any reputational and commercial impact that we may have suffered due the grounding of Boeing MAX aircraft. Any 
technical issues with our aircraft would increase our maintenance expenses and could cause flight cancellations and other disruptions in our services. 

If we were to determine that our aircraft, rotable parts or inventory were impaired, it would have a significant adverse effect on our operating 
results. 

If there is objective evidence that an impairment loss on long-lived assets carried at amortized cost has been incurred, the amount of the 
impairment loss is measured as the difference between the asset’s carrying amount and the higher of its fair value less cost to sell and its value in use, 
defined as the present value of estimated future cash flows (excluding future expected credit losses that have 

9 

not been incurred) discounted at the asset’s risk adjusted interest rate. The carrying amount of the asset is reduced and the loss is recorded in the 
consolidated statement of profit or loss. In addition to the fact that the value of our fleet declines as it ages, any potential excess capacity in the airline 
industry, airline bankruptcies and other factors beyond our control may further contribute to the decline of the fair market value of our aircraft and 
related rotable parts and inventory. If such impairment does occur, we would be required under IFRS to write down these assets through a charge to 
earnings. A significant charge to earnings would adversely affect our financial condition and operating results. In addition, the interest rates on and the 
availability of certain of our aircraft financing loans are tied to the value of the aircraft securing the loans. If those values were to decrease substantially, 
our interest rates may rise or the lenders under those loans may cease extending credit to us, either of which could have an adverse impact on our 
financial condition and results of operations. 

For example, as a result of the Company’s continuing fleet optimization and efficiency efforts, in December 2018 the Company signed an 

aircraft sale and purchase agreement with Azorra Aviation for the sale of five Embraer 190 aircraft in 2019. In connection with the transaction, we 
recognized an impairment charge in respect of our entire Embraer 190 fleet and related spare parts. This impairment generated a non-cash loss of 
$188.6 million, which was recorded in the fourth quarter of 2018. During 2019, we announced our intention to accelerate the exit of our entire Embraer 
190 fleet by selling the remaining 14 aircraft by 2020. This anticipated exit resulted in a non-cash loss of $89.3 million related to the remaining aircraft 
as well as General Electric CF34 spare engines, and our Embraer 190 spare parts inventory. 

We rely on information and other aviation technology systems to operate our businesses and any failure or disruption of these systems may 
have an impact on our operational and financial results. 

We rely upon information technology systems to operate our business and increase our efficiency. We are highly reliant on certain systems 

for flight operations, maintenance, reservations, check-in boarding, revenue management, baggage handling accounting and cargo distribution. Other 
systems are designed to decrease distribution costs through internet reservations and to maximize cargo distributions, crew utilization and flight 
scheduling. These systems may not deliver their anticipated benefits. 

In the ordinary course of business, we may upgrade or replace our systems or otherwise modify and refine our existing systems to address 

changing business requirements. In particular, our digital channels rely on advanced technology and, as this technology is updated, older technology 
may become obsolete. Our operations and competitive position could be adversely affected if we are unable to upgrade or replace our systems in a 
timely and effective manner once they become outdated, and any inability to upgrade or replace our systems could negatively impact our financial 
results. 

Any transition to new systems may result in a loss of data or service interruption that could harm our business. Information systems could 
also suffer disruptions due to events beyond our control, including natural disasters, power failures, terrorist attacks, cyber-attacks, data theft, equipment 
or software failures, computer viruses or telecommunications failures. We cannot ensure that our security measures or disaster recovery plans are 
adequate to prevent failures or disruptions. Substantial or repeated website, reservations systems or telecommunication system failures or disruptions, 
including failures or disruptions related to our integration of technology systems, could reduce the attractiveness of our Company versus our 
competitors, materially impair our ability to market our services and operate flights, result in the unauthorized release of confidential or otherwise 
protected information, and result in increased costs, lost revenue, or the loss or compromise of important data. 

Our reputation and business may be harmed and we may be subject to legal claims if there is a loss, unlawful disclosure or misappropriation 
of, or unsanctioned access to, our customers’, employees’, business partners’ or our own information, or any other breaches of our 
information security. 

We make extensive use of online services and centralized data processing, including through third-party service providers. The secure 
maintenance and transmission of customer and employee information is a critical element of our operations. Our information technology and other 
systems, or those of service providers or business partners that maintain and transmit customer information, may be compromised by a malicious third-
party penetration of our security measures, or of a third-party service provider or business partner, or impacted by deliberate or inadvertent actions or 
inactions by our employees, or those of a third-party service provider or business partner. As a result, personal information may be lost, disclosed, 
accessed or taken without consent. 

We transmit confidential credit card information throughout secure private retail networks and rely on encryption and authentication 
technology licensed from third parties to provide the security and authentication necessary to effect secure transmission and storage of confidential 
information, such as customer credit card information. The Company has made significant efforts to secure its data network. If our security or network 
were compromised in any way, it could have a material adverse effect on the reputation, business, operating results and financial condition of the 
Company, and could result in a loss of customers. Additionally, any material failure by the Company to achieve or maintain compliance with the 
Payment Card Industry security requirements or rectify a security issue may result in fines and the imposition of restrictions on the Company’s ability to 
accept credit cards as a form of payment. 

10 

As a result of these types of risks, we regularly review and update procedures and processes to prevent and protect against unauthorized 

access to our systems and information and inadvertent misuse of data. 

However, it is difficult or impossible to defend against every risk being posed by changing technologies as well as acts of cyber-crime. 

Increasing sophistication of cyber criminals and terrorists make keeping up with new threats difficult and controls employed by our information 
technology department and cloud vendors could prove inadequate. As a result, we cannot be certain that we will not be the target of attacks on our 
networks and intrusions into our data, particularly given continuous advances in the technical capabilities of potential attackers, and increased financial 
and political motivations to carry out cyber-attacks on physical systems, gain unauthorized access to information, and make information unavailable for 
use through, for example, ransomware or denial-of-service attacks, and otherwise exploit new and existing vulnerabilities in our infrastructure. The risk 
of a data security incident or disruption, particularly through cyber-attack or cyber intrusion, including by computer hackers, foreign governments, 
criminal organizations and cyber terrorists, has increased as the number, intensity and sophistication of attempted attacks and intrusions from around the 
world have increased. 

Furthermore, in response to data security threats and to data privacy concerns, there has been heightened legislative and regulatory focus 
on attacks on critical infrastructures, including those in the transportation sector, and on data security and privacy in Panama, Brazil, the United States 
and other countries where we operate, including requirements for varying levels of data usage consent and data subject notification in the event of a data 
security incident. 

Any such loss, disclosure or misappropriation of, or access to, customers’, employees’ or business partners’ information or other breach of 

our information security could result in legal claims or legal proceedings, including regulatory investigations and actions, may have a negative impact 
on our reputation and may materially adversely affect our business, operating results and financial condition. Furthermore, the loss, disclosure or 
misappropriation of our business information may materially adversely affect our business, operating results and financial condition. 

Our liquidity could be adversely impacted in the event one or more of our credit card processors were to impose material reserve requirements 
for payments due to us from credit card transactions. 

We currently have agreements with organizations that process credit card transactions arising from purchases of air travel tickets by our 
customers. Credit card processors have financial risk associated with tickets purchased for travel that can occur several weeks after the purchase. Our 
credit card processing agreements provide for reserves to be deposited with the processor in certain circumstances. We do not currently have reserves 
posted for our credit card processors. If circumstances were to occur requiring us to deposit reserves, the negative impact on our liquidity could be 
significant, which could materially adversely affect our business. 

The Company has agreements with financial institutions that process customer credit card transactions for the sale of air travel and other 
services. Under certain of the Company’s credit card processing agreements, the financial institutions in certain circumstances have the right to require 
that the Company maintain a reserve equal to a portion of advance ticket sales that has been processed by that financial institution, but for which the 
Company has not yet provided the air transportation. Such financial institutions may require additional cash or other collateral reserves to be established 
or additional withholding of payments related to receivables collected if the Company does not maintain certain minimum levels of unrestricted cash, 
cash equivalents and short-term investments (collectively, “Unrestricted Liquidity”). The Company follows a policy of giving passengers credit to be 
redeemed in future dates instead of providing refunds which helps maintain healthy levels of unrestricted Liquidity. 

Our quarterly results could fluctuate substantially, and the trading price of our Class A shares may be affected by such variations. 

The airline industry is by nature cyclical and seasonal, and our operating results may vary from quarter to quarter. In general, demand for 
air travel is higher in the third and fourth quarters, particularly in international markets, because of the increase in vacation travel during these periods 
relative to the remainder of the year. We tend to experience the highest levels of traffic and revenue in July and August, with a smaller peak in traffic in 
December and January. We generally experience our lowest levels of passenger traffic in April and May. Given our high proportion of fixed costs, 
seasonality can affect our profitability from quarter to quarter. Demand for air travel is also affected by factors such as economic conditions, capacity 
additions by competitors, war or the threat of war, fare levels and weather conditions. 

11 

Due to the factors described above and others described in this annual report, quarter-to-quarter comparisons of our operating results may 
not be good indicators of our future performance. In addition, it is possible that in any quarter our operating results could be below the expectations of 
investors and any published reports or analyses regarding our Company. In that event, the price of our Class A shares could decline, perhaps 
substantially. 

Our reputation and financial results could be harmed in the event of an accident or incident involving our aircraft or the type of aircraft that 
we operate. 

An accident or incident involving one of our aircraft could involve significant claims by injured passengers and others, as well as 

significant costs related to the repair or replacement of a damaged aircraft and its temporary or permanent loss from service. We are required by our 
creditors and the lessors of our aircraft under our operating lease agreements to carry liability insurance, but the amount of such liability insurance 
coverage may not be adequate and we may be forced to bear substantial losses in the event of an accident. Our insurance premiums may also increase, 
or we may lose our eligibility for insurance, due to an accident or incident affecting one of our aircraft. Substantial claims resulting from an accident in 
excess of our related insurance coverage or increased premiums would harm our business and financial results. 

Moreover, any aircraft accident or incident, even if fully insured, could cause the public to perceive us as less safe or reliable than other 

airlines, which could harm our business and results of operations. The Copa brand name and our corporate reputation are important and valuable assets. 
Adverse publicity (whether or not justified) could tarnish our reputation and reduce the value of our brand. Adverse perceptions of the types of aircraft 
that we operate arising from safety concerns or other problems, whether real or perceived, or in the event of an accident involving those types of aircraft, 
could significantly harm our business as the public may avoid flying on our aircraft. See “—If we fail to successfully operate new aircraft, in particular 
our new Boeing 737 MAX aircraft, our business could be harmed.” 

Fluctuations in foreign exchange rates could negatively affect our net income. 

In 2019, approximately 67.3% of revenues and 81.3% of expenses were denominated in U.S. dollars (for 2018, US dollar-denominated 

expenses and revenues were 55.3% and 44.7%, respectively). A significant part of our revenue is denominated in foreign currencies, including the 
Brazilian real, Colombian peso and Argentinian peso, which represented 8.7%, 8.3% and 4.8%, of our revenues in 2019, respectively (for 2018, 
Brazilian real, Colombian peso and Argentinian peso comprised 22.7%, 11.3% and 7.2% respectively). If any of these currencies decline in value 
against the U.S. dollar, our revenues, expressed in U.S. dollars, and our operating margin would be adversely affected. We may not be able to adjust our 
fares denominated in other currencies to offset any increases in U.S. dollar-denominated expenses, increases in interest expense or exchange losses on 
fixed obligations or indebtedness denominated in foreign currency. 

We are also exposed to exchange rate losses, as well as gains, due to the fluctuation in the value of local currencies against the U.S. dollar 
during the period of time between the times we are paid in local currencies and the time we are able to repatriate the revenues in U.S. dollars. Typically, 
this process takes between one and two weeks in most countries to which we fly. 

Changes in accounting standards could adversely affect our financial results. 

The IASB, or other regulatory authorities, periodically introduce modifications to financial accounting and reporting standards or issue 

new financial accounting and reporting standards under which we prepare our consolidated financial statements. These changes can materially affect the 
way we present our financial condition and results of operations. We may also be required to retroactively apply new or revised standards, which would 
require us to restate previous financial statements. 

Effective from January 1, 2019, we were required to adopt the new accounting standard IFRS 16 Leases (“IFRS 16”). As a result, the 
Company has changed its accounting policy for lease contracts. IFRS 16 supersedes IAS 17 Leases, IFRIC 4 Determining whether an arrangement 
contains a lease, SIC-15 operating leases-incentives, and SIC-27 Evaluating the substance of transactions involving the legal form of a lease. The 
standard sets out the principles for the recognition, measurement, presentation and disclosure of leases and requires lessees to recognize most leases on 
the statement of financial position. 

The Company has adopted the standard using the full retrospective approach and has restated comparatives for the 2018 and 2017 

reporting periods. The details of the changes in accounting policies and impacts are disclosed in note 5 to our annual consolidated financial statements. 

12 

Our maintenance costs will increase as our fleet ages. 

The average age of our fleet was approximately 9.2 years as of December 31, 2019. Historically, we have incurred low levels of 

maintenance expenses relative to the size of our fleet because most of the parts on our aircraft are covered under multi-year warranties. As our fleet ages 
and these warranties expire and the time flown by each aircraft increases, our maintenance costs will increase, both on an absolute basis and as a 
percentage of our operating expenses. 

If we enter into a prolonged dispute with any of our employees, many of whom are represented by unions, or if we are required to substantially 
increase the salaries or benefits of our employees, it may have an adverse impact on our operations and financial condition. 

Approximately 61.8% of our 8,877 employees are unionized. There are currently five unions covering our employees based in Panama: 

the pilots’ union; the flight attendants’ union; the mechanics’ union; the passenger service agents’ union; and an industry union, which represents 
ground personnel, messengers, drivers, passenger service agents, counter agents and other non-executive administrative staff. Copa entered into 
collective bargaining agreements with the pilot’s union in July 2017, the industry union in December 2017, the mechanics’ union in June 2018 and the 
flight attendants’ union in October 2018. Collective bargaining agreements in Panama typically have four-year terms. In addition to unions in Panama, 
there are four unions covering employees in Colombia; in Brazil, all airline industry employees in the country are covered by the industry union 
agreements, and airport employees in Argentina are affiliated to an industry union (UPADEP). 

A strike, work interruption or stoppage or any prolonged dispute with our employees who are represented by any of these unions could 

have an adverse impact on our operations. These risks are typically exacerbated during periods of renegotiation with the unions, which typically occurs 
every two to four years depending on the jurisdiction and the union. Any renegotiated collective bargaining agreement could feature significant wage 
increases and a consequent increase in our operating expenses. Any failure to reach an agreement during negotiations with unions may require us to 
enter into arbitration proceedings, use financial and management resources, and potentially agree to terms that are less favorable to us than our existing 
agreements. Employees who are not currently members of unions may also form new unions that may seek further wage increases or benefits. 

Our business is labor-intensive. We expect salaries, wages, benefits and other employee expenses to increase on a gross basis, and these 
costs could increase as a percentage of our overall costs. If we are unable to hire, train and retain qualified pilots and other employees at a reasonable 
cost, our business could be harmed and we may be unable to complete our expansion plans. 

Our revenues depend on our relationship with travel agents and tour operators and we must manage the costs, rights and functionality of 
these third-party distribution channels effectively. 

In 2019, approximately 66.8% of our revenues were derived from tickets sold through third-party distribution channels, including those 

provided by conventional travel agents, online travel agents, or “OTAs,” or tour operators. We cannot assure that we will be able to maintain favorable 
relationships with these ticket sellers. Our revenues could be adversely impacted if travel agents or tour operators elect to favor other airlines or to 
disfavor us. Our relationship with travel agents and tour operators may be affected by: 

•

•

•

the size of commissions offered by other airlines; 

changes in our arrangements with other distributors of airline tickets; and 

the introduction and growth of new methods of selling tickets. 

These third-party distribution channels, along with global distribution systems, or “GDSs,” that travel agents, “OTAs” and tour operators 

use to obtain airline travel information and issue airline tickets, are more expensive than those we operate ourselves, such as our website. Certain of 
these distribution channels also effectively restrict the manner in which we distribute our products generally. To remain competitive, we will need to 
successfully manage our distribution costs and rights, increase our distribution flexibility and improve the functionality of third-party distribution 
channels, while maintaining an industry-competitive cost structure. These initiatives may affect our relationships with our third-party distribution 
channels. Any inability to manage our third-party distribution costs, rights and functionality at a competitive level or any material diminishment or 
disruption in the distribution of our tickets could have a material adverse effect on our business, results of operations and financial condition. 

13 

We rely on third parties to provide our customers and us with services that are integral to our business. 

We have several agreements with third-party contractors to provide certain services primarily outside of Panama. Maintenance services 

include aircraft heavy checks, engine maintenance, overhaul, component repairs and line maintenance activities. In addition to call center services, third-
party contractors also provide us with airport services. At airports other than Tocumen International Airport, most of our aircraft services are performed 
by third-party contractors. Substantially all of our agreements with third-party contractors are subject to termination on short notice. The loss or 
expiration of these agreements or our inability to renew these agreements or to negotiate new agreements with other providers at comparable rates could 
negatively impact our business and results of operations. Further, our reliance on third parties to provide reliable equipment or essential services on our 
behalf could lead us to have less control over the costs, efficiency, timeliness and quality of our service. A contractor’s negligence could compromise 
our aircraft or endanger passengers and crew. This could also have a material adverse effect on our business. We expect to be dependent on such 
agreements for the foreseeable future and if we enter any new market, we will need to have similar agreements in place. 

We depend on a limited number of suppliers. 

We are subject to the risks of having a limited number of suppliers for our aircraft and engines. One of the elements of our business 

strategy is to save costs by operating a simplified fleet. Copa currently operates a fleet of Boeing 737-700/800 Next Generation aircraft powered by 
CFM 56-7B engines from CFM International, Embraer 190, powered by CF 34-10 engines from General Electric, and Boeing 737MAX 9, powered by, 
Leap 1B engines, from CFM International. If any of Boeing, Embraer, CFM International or General Electric are unable to perform their contractual 
obligations, or if we are unable to acquire or lease new aircraft or engines from aircraft or engine manufacturers or lessors on acceptable terms, we 
would have to find another supplier for a similar type of aircraft or engine. 

If we have to lease or purchase aircraft from another supplier, including in connection with the recent Boeing 737 MAX aircraft 

grounding, we could lose the benefits we derive from our current fleet composition. We cannot ensure that any replacement aircraft would have the 
same operating advantages as the Boeing 737-700/800 Next Generation, Boeing 737-MAX 9 or Embraer 190 aircraft that would be replaced or that 
Copa could lease or purchase engines that would be as reliable and efficient as the CFM 56-7B, Leap 1B and GE CF34-10. We may also incur 
substantial transition costs, including costs associated with acquiring spare parts for different aircraft models, retraining our employees, replacing our 
manuals and adapting our facilities. Our operations could also be harmed by the failure or inability of Boeing, Embraer, CFM International or General 
Electric to provide sufficient parts or related support services on a timely basis. 

Our business would be impacted if a design defect or mechanical problem with any of the types of aircraft, engines or components that we 

operate were discovered that would ground any of our aircraft while the defect or problem was being addressed, assuming it could be corrected at all. 
The use of our aircraft could be suspended or restricted by regulatory authorities in the event of any actual or perceived mechanical or design issues. 
Following the Ethiopian Airlines accident involving a Boeing 737 MAX 8 aircraft, we suspended operations of our six Boeing 737 MAX 9 aircraft, as 
regulatory authorities around the world grounded the aircraft. Our business would also be negatively impacted if the public began to avoid flying with us 
due to an adverse perception of the types of aircraft that we operate stemming from safety concerns or other problems, whether real or perceived, or in 
the event of an accident involving those types of aircraft or components. 

We also depend on a limited number of suppliers with respect to supplies obtained locally, such as our fuel. These local suppliers may not 

be able to maintain the pace of our growth and our requirements may exceed their capabilities, which may adversely affect our ability to execute our 
day-to-day operations and our growth strategy. 

Our business financial condition and results of operations could be materially affected by the loss of key personnel. 

Our success depends to a significant extent on the ability of our senior management team and key personnel to operate and manage our 

business effectively. Most of our employment agreements with key personnel do not contain any non-competition provisions applicable upon 
termination. Competition for highly qualified personnel is intense. If we lose any executive officer, senior manager or other key employee and are not 
able to obtain an adequate replacement, or if we are unable to attract and retain new qualified personnel, our business, financial condition and results of 
operations could be materially adversely affected. 

14 

Risks Relating to the Airline Industry 

An outbreak of disease or similar public health threat, such as the coronavirus, could have a material adverse impact on the Company’s 
business, operating results and financial condition. 

An outbreak of disease or similar public health threat, or fear of such an event, that affects travel demand or travel behavior could have a 

material adverse impact on the Company’s business, financial condition and operating results. In addition, outbreaks of disease could result in travel 
bans or restrictions, increased government restrictions and regulation, including quarantines of our personnel or an inability to access facilities or our 
aircraft, which could adversely affect our operations. 

In December 2019, a novel strain of coronavirus (“COVID-19”) was reported in Wuhan, China. The virus has promulgated significantly 

outside China, and now exists in most of the world. As a result, The World Health Organization has declared COVID-19 a pandemic. In addition, on 
March 13 the U.S. government declared a state of emergency and took some important actions including enhanced screenings, quarantine requirements 
and travel restrictions to certain countries. Other countries have put in place similar measures. 

As of the date of this report, the Company is experiencing decline in near-term demand as evidence by a significant reduction in forward 

sales over the next few months, with declines of as much as 50% as compared to forward sales during the same period the previous year. In March 2020 
we temporarily suspended, for a maximum of 30 days, some flights to markets on Central America, South America and The Caribbean due to 
government travel restrictions as the result of the virus. 

We have implemented certain initiatives, including cost savings, temporary capacity reductions, deferral of the company’s non-essential 

capital expenditures, and the drawing of $300 million from medium-term liquidity facilities. All of these actions are intended to mitigate the disruptions 
caused by the coronavirus. 

The extent of the impact of the COVID-19 on the Company’s operational and financial performance will depend on future developments, 

including the duration, spread of the outbreak, related travel advisories, restrictions and the impact of the COVID-19 on overall demand for air travel, all 
of which are highly uncertain and cannot be predicted. If traffic on the Company’s routes were to remain at these levels for an extended period, and/or 
routes in other parts of the Company’s network begin to see significant declines in demand, our results of operations for 2020 would be materially 
adversely affected and we may have to take additional actions to preserve our long- term sustainability. 

Our auditors have included a going concern emphasis paragraph in their opinion due to the significant drop in demand for air travel as a 
result of the effects of the COVID-19 global pandemic, and specifically the actions taken by governments, including the closing of the Panama 
City Airport, which are largely out of our control. 

The Company’ consolidated financial statements have been presented on the basis that it is a going concern, which contemplates the realization of 

assets and satisfaction of liabilities in the ordinary course of business. However, because of the significant drop in worldwide demand for air travel 
caused by the COVID-19 global pandemic that has affected the entire aviation industry, and the significant travel restrictions that have been placed by 
numerous countries, including the decision by the government of the Republic of Panama to suspend all passenger flights for a period of one month 
effective on March 22, 2020, the Company’ independent registered public accounting firm, in their report on the Company’ consolidated financial 
statements for the year ended December 31, 2019, have expressed substantial doubt about the Company’ ability to continue as a going concern. 

Following the suspension of its operations as a result of the government restrictions related to the COVID-19 global pandemic, the Company has 

implemented several measures to maintain robust liquidity levels, including the acceleration of collection of its accounts receivable through increased 
factoring, and the negotiation of longer payment terms with its main suppliers. As of March 15, 2020 the company had $1.0 billion in cash and 
equivalents, and approximately $300 million on currently available lines of credit. As of March 31, 2020 the company had drawn on $145 million of the 
$300 million available and ended the month of March 2020 with approximately $1.15 billion in cash and equivalents. To further bolster its cash and 
equivalents position the Company has the possibility of raising approximately $400 million in additional funds by refinancing its unencumbered aircraft, 
engines and aircraft spare parts, as well as by requesting advances from banks secured by its investments (including time deposits and fixed income 
instruments). In addition, the Company is reducing operational expenses and non-essential capital expenditure outflows. With these operating and 
financing measures it expects to decrease its monthly cash burn ratio to approximately $70 million per month for the remainder of 2020. The Company 
cannot guarantee that it will be successful in implementing these initiatives. 

The airline industry is highly competitive. 

We face intense competition throughout our route network. Overall airline industry profit margins are low and industry earnings are 
volatile. Airlines compete in the areas of pricing, scheduling (frequency and flight times), on-time performance, frequent flyer programs and other 
services. Some of our competitors have larger customer bases and greater brand recognition in the markets we serve outside Panama, and some of our 
competitors have significantly greater financial and marketing resources than we have. Airlines based in other countries may also receive subsidies, tax 
incentives or other state aid from their respective governments, which are not provided by the Panamanian government. Changes in our interactions with 
our passengers or our product offerings could negatively impact our business. For example, prior to 2015, we had participated in UAL’s loyalty 
program, MileagePlus. Starting in July 2015, we launched our own ConnectMiles frequent flyer program. Although, ConnectMiles is allowing us to 
build a more direct relationship with our customers, it may not be as successful as UAL’s MileagePlus program in building, and maintaining, brand 
loyalty. In addition, the commencement of, or increase in, service on the routes we serve by existing or new carriers could negatively impact our 
operating results. Likewise, competitors’ service on routes that we are targeting for expansion may make those expansion plans less attractive. 

We compete with a number of other airlines that currently serve some of the routes on which we operate, including Avianca, American 
Airlines, Delta Air Lines, Aeromexico, and LATAM Group among others. Strategic alliances, bankruptcy restructurings and industry consolidations 
characterize the airline industry and tend to intensify competition. Several air carriers have merged and/or reorganized, including certain of our 
competitors, such as LAN-TAM, Avianca-Taca, American-US Airways, Delta-Northwest and, most recently, the strategic partnership between Delta 
Airlines and LATAM Group. As a result, they have benefited from lower operating costs and fare discounting in order to maintain cash flows and to 
enhance continued customer loyalty. 

Traditional hub-and-spoke carriers in the United States and Europe continue to face substantial and increasing competitive pressure from 

LCCs offering discounted fares. The LCC business model appears to be gaining acceptance in the Latin American aviation industry. The LCCs’ 
operations are typically characterized by point-to-point route networks focusing on the highest demand city pairs, high aircraft utilization, single class 
service and fewer in-flight amenities. As a result, we may face new and substantial competition from 

15 

LCCs in the future, which could result in significant and lasting downward pressure on the fares we charge for flights on our routes. Current LCCs such 
as Volaris, Spirit, JetBlue, Interjet and Gol are adding pressure to our fares and are also exploring new competitive routes overflying our Hub. We also 
expect more competition from new entrants in the market such as JetSmart and FlyBondi. In December 2016, Copa’s subsidiary in Colombia, 
AeroRepública, launched Wingo, a low-cost business model to serve domestic destinations and some point-to-point international leisure markets, to 
improve Copa’s position within Colombia, and better compete with low unbundled prices from LCCs. Although we intend to compete vigorously and 
maintain our strong competitive position in the industry, Avianca, LATAM and Viva Air represent a significant portion of the domestic market in 
Colombia and have access to greater resources as a result of their larger size. Therefore, Copa faces stronger competition now than in recent years, and 
its prior results may not be indicative of its future performance. 

We must constantly react to changes in prices and services offered by our competitors to remain competitive. The airline industry is highly 

susceptible to price discounting, particularly because airlines incur very low marginal costs for providing service to passengers occupying otherwise 
unsold seats. Carriers use discount fares to stimulate traffic during periods of lower demand to generate cash flow and to increase market share. Any 
lower fares offered by one airline are often matched by competing airlines, which often results in lower industry yields with little or no increase in 
traffic levels. Price competition among airlines in the future could lead to lower fares or passenger traffic on some or all of our routes, which could 
negatively impact our profitability. We cannot be certain that any of our competitors will not undercut our fares in the future or increase capacity on 
routes in an effort to increase their respective market share. Although we intend to compete vigorously and to assert our rights against any predatory 
conduct, such activity by other airlines could reduce the level of fares or passenger traffic on our routes to the point where profitable levels of operations 
cannot be maintained. Due to our smaller size and financial resources compared to several of our competitors, we may be less able to withstand 
aggressive marketing tactics or fare wars engaged in by our competitors should such events occur. 

Significant changes or extended periods of high fuel costs or fuel supply disruptions could materially affect our operating results. 

Fuel costs constitute a significant portion of our total operating expenses, representing approximately 29.5% of operating expenses in 

2019, 30.4% of operating expenses in 2018 and 27.5% in 2017. Jet fuel costs have been subject to wide fluctuations as a result of increases in demand, 
sudden disruptions in and other concerns about global supply, as well as market speculation. Both the cost and availability of fuel are subject to many 
economic, political, weather, environmental and other factors and events occurring throughout the world that we can neither control nor accurately 
predict, including international political and economic circumstances such as the political instability in major oil-exporting countries in Latin America, 
Africa and Asia. Any future fuel supply shortage (for example, as a result of production curtailments by the Organization of the Petroleum Exporting 
Countries, or “OPEC”, a disruption of oil imports, supply disruptions resulting from severe weather or natural disasters, the continued unrest in the 
Middle East or otherwise could result in higher fuel prices or further reductions in scheduled airline services). We cannot ensure that we would be able 
to offset any increases in the price of fuel by increasing our fares. 

Furthermore, in October 2016, the International Maritime Organization (IMO) enacted a new regulation requiring sulphur content in 

marine fuels to be reduced from 3.5% to 0.5%. Considering that the implementation date for this regulation is January 1, 2020, airlines could be directly 
affected as refiner efforts to produce this new bunker product is expected to increase the price of jet fuel. 

As of December 31, 2019, the Company was not a party to any outstanding fuel hedge contracts, and has adopted a new strategy of 

remaining unhedged, while regularly reviewing its policies based on market conditions and others factors.    For 2020, although we have not hedged any 
part of our anticipated fuel needs, we continue to evaluate various hedging strategies and may enter into additional hedging agreements in the future, as 
any substantial and prolonged increase in the price of jet fuel will likely materially and negatively affect our business, financial condition and results of 
operation. 

We may experience difficulty recruiting, training and retaining pilots and other employees. 

The airline industry is a labor-intensive business. We employ a large number of flight attendants, maintenance technicians and other 

operating and administrative personnel. The airline industry has, from time to time, experienced a shortage of qualified personnel. As is common with 
most of our competitors, considerable turnover of employees may occur and may not always be predictable. When we experience higher turnover, our 
training costs may be higher due to the significant amount of time required to train each new employee and, in particular, each new pilot. If our pilots 
terminate their contracts earlier than anticipated, we may be unable to successfully recoup the costs spent to train those pilots. We cannot be certain that 
we will be able to recruit, train and retain the qualified employees that we need to continue our current operations to replace departing employees. A 
failure to hire, train and retain qualified employees at a reasonable cost could materially adversely affect our business, financial condition and results of 
operations. 

16 

Under Panamanian law, there is a limit on the maximum number of non-Panamanian employees that we may employ. Our need for 

qualified pilots has at times exceeded the domestic supply and as such, we have had to hire a substantial number of non-Panamanian national pilots. 
However, we cannot ensure that we will continue to attract Panamanian and foreign pilots. The inability to attract and retain pilots, or a change in 
Panamanian regulations, may adversely affect our growth strategy by limiting our ability to add new routes or increase the frequency of existing routes. 

Because the airline industry is characterized by high fixed costs and relatively elastic revenues, airlines cannot quickly reduce their costs to 
respond to shortfalls in expected revenue. 

The airline industry is characterized by low gross profit margins, high fixed costs and revenues that generally exhibit substantially greater 

elasticity than costs. The operating costs of each flight do not vary significantly with the number of passengers flown and, therefore, a relatively small 
change in the number of passengers, fare pricing or traffic mix could have a significant effect on operating and financial results. These fixed costs 
cannot be adjusted quickly to respond to changes in revenues, and a shortfall from expected revenue levels could have a material adverse effect on our 
net income. 

Our business may be adversely affected by downturns in the airline industry caused by terrorist attacks, political unrest, war or outbreak of 
disease, which may alter travel behavior or increase costs. 

Demand for air transportation may be adversely affected by terrorist attacks, war or political and social instability, an outbreak of a disease 

or similar public health threat, natural disasters, cyber security threats and other events. Any of these events could cause governmental authorities to 
impose travel restrictions or otherwise cause a reduction in travel demand or changes in travel behavior in the markets in which we operate. Any of 
these events in our markets could have a material impact on our business, financial condition and results of operations. Furthermore, these types of 
situations could have a prolonged effect on air transportation demand and on certain cost items, such as security and insurance costs. 

The terrorist attacks in the United States on September 11, 2001, for example, had a severe and lasting adverse impact on the airline 

industry, in particular, a decrease in airline traffic in the United States and, to a lesser extent, in Latin America. Our revenues depend on the number of 
passengers traveling on our flights. Therefore, any future terrorist attacks or threat of attacks, whether or not involving commercial aircraft, any increase 
in hostilities relating to reprisals against terrorist organizations, including an escalation of military involvement in the Middle East, or otherwise, and 
any related economic impact could result in decreased passenger traffic and materially and negatively affect our business, financial condition and results 
of operations. 

Increases in insurance costs and/or significant reductions in coverage would harm our business, financial condition and results of operations. 

Following the 2001 terrorist attacks, premiums for insurance against aircraft damage and liability to third parties increased substantially, 

and insurers could reduce their coverage or increase their premiums even further in the event of additional terrorist attacks, hijackings, airline crashes or 
other events adversely affecting the airline industry abroad or in Latin America. In the future, certain aviation insurance could become unaffordable, 
unavailable, or available only for reduced amounts of coverage that are insufficient to comply with the levels of insurance coverage required by aircraft 
lenders and lessors or applicable government regulations. While governments in other countries have agreed to indemnify airlines for liabilities that they 
might incur from terrorist attacks or provide low-cost insurance for terrorism risks, the Panamanian government has not indicated an intention to provide 
similar benefits to us. Increases in the cost of insurance may result in higher fares, which could result in a decreased demand and materially and 
negatively affect our business, financial condition and results of operations. 

Failure to comply with applicable environmental regulations could adversely affect our business. 

Our operations are covered by various local, national and international environmental regulations. These regulations cover, among other 

things, emissions to the atmosphere, disposal of solid waste and aqueous effluents, aircraft noise and other activities that result from the operation of 
aircraft. Future operations and financial results may vary as a result of such regulations. Compliance with these regulations and new or existing 
regulations that may be applicable to us in the future could increase our cost base and adversely affect our operations and financial results. 

For example, the ICAO has issued the first edition of the Carbon Offsetting and Reduction Scheme for International Aviation (“CORSIA”) 

to address the increase in total CO2 emissions from international aviation. As Colombia and Panama are member states of ICAO, the Civil Aviation 
Authorities (“CAAs”) of Panama and Colombia are developing new regulations to implement CORSIA. They 

17 

expect to make these regulations public in 2020. Under CORSIA, airplane operators must annually report the fuel consumption of their international 
commercial operations and the corresponding CO2 emissions (domestic operations are excluded from these requirements). The first report must be 
presented no later than May 2020. Copa Airlines and AeroRepública have already presented to their CAAs the Emission Monitoring Plan (“EMP”) 
required by CORSIA. 

In addition to encouraging CO2 emissions reductions, CORSIA will require airline operators to offset CO2 emissions through payments to 
authorized carbon banks, which will invest in environmental projects to reduce the global carbon footprint. Copa Airlines and AeroRepública will not be 
subject to the emissions offsetting requirements until 2027, because Panama and Colombia are not participating in the voluntary first phase of CORSIA. 

Risks Relating to Panama and our Region 

We are highly dependent on conditions in Panama and, to a lesser extent, in Colombia. 

A substantial portion of our assets is located in the Republic of Panama and a significant proportion of our passengers’ trips either 

originates or ends in Panama. Furthermore, substantially all of Copa’s flights operate through our hub at Tocumen International Airport. As a result, we 
depend on economic and political conditions prevailing from time to time in Panama. Panama’s economic conditions in turn highly depend on the 
continued profitability and economic impact of the Panama Canal. Control of the Panama Canal and many other assets were transferred from the United 
States to Panama in 1999 after nearly a century of U.S. control. Political events in Panama may significantly affect our operations. 

Copa Colombia’s results of operations are highly sensitive to macroeconomic and political conditions prevailing in Colombia. Although 

the state of affairs in Colombia has been steadily improving since 2002, the Colombian economy’s growth slowed during 2017. Any political unrest and 
instability in Colombia could adversely affect Copa Colombia’s financial condition and results of operations. 

According to International Monetary Fund estimates, during 2020 the Panamanian and Colombian economies are expected to grow by 

5.5% and 3.6%, respectively, as measured by their GDP at constant prices. However, if either economy experiences a sustained recession, or significant 
political disruptions, our business, financial condition or results of operations could be materially and negatively affected. 

Any increase in the taxes we or our shareholders pay in Panama or the other countries where we do business could adversely affect our 
financial performance and results of operations. 

We cannot ensure that our current tax rates will not increase. Our income tax expenses were $46.4 million, $34.5 million and $49.3 million 

in the years ended December 31, 2019, 2018 and 2017, respectively, which represented an effective income tax rate of 15.8%, 28.1% and 12.0%, 
respectively. We are subject to local tax regulations in each of the jurisdictions where we operate, the great majority of which are related to the taxation 
of income. In some of the countries to which we fly, we are not subject to pay income taxes, either because those countries do not have income tax or 
because of treaties or other arrangements those countries have with Panama. In the remaining countries, we pay income tax at rates ranging from 22% to 
34% of income. 

Different countries calculate income in different ways, but they are typically derived from sales in the applicable country multiplied by our 

net margin or by a presumed net margin set by the relevant tax legislation. The determination of our taxable income in certain countries is based on a 
combination of revenues sourced to each particular country and the allocation of expenses of our operations to that particular country. The methodology 
for multinational transportation company sourcing of revenues and expenses is not always specifically prescribed in the relevant tax regulations, and 
therefore is subject to interpretation by both us and the respective taxing authorities. Additionally, in some countries, the applicability of certain 
regulations governing non-income taxes and the determination of our filing status are also subject to interpretation. We cannot estimate the amount, if 
any, of potential tax liabilities that might result if the allocations, interpretations and filing positions used by us in our tax returns were challenged by the 
taxing authorities of one or more countries. If taxes were to increase, our financial performance and results of operations could be materially and 
adversely affected. Due to the competitive revenue environment, many increases in fees and taxes have been absorbed by the airline industry rather than 
being passed on to the passenger. If we were to pass any of these increases in fees and taxes onto passengers, we may no longer compete effectively as 
those increases may result in reduced customer demand for air travel with us and we may no longer compete effectively, thereby reducing our revenues. 
If we were to absorb any increases in fees and taxes, the additional costs could have a material adverse effect on our results of operations. 

18 

The Panamanian tax code for the airline industry states that tax is based on net income earned for passenger and cargo traffic with an 

origin or final destination in the Republic of Panama. The applicable tax rate is currently 25%. Dividends from our Panamanian subsidiaries, including 
Copa, are separately subject to a 10% percent withholding tax on the portion attributable to Panamanian-sourced income and a 5% withholding tax on 
the portion attributable to foreign-sourced income. Additionally, a 7% value added tax is levied on tickets issued in Panama for travel commencing in 
Panama and going abroad, irrespective of where such tickets were ordered. If such taxes were to increase, our financial performance and results of 
operations could be materially and adversely affected. In February 2020, the Company received two notifications from the tax authority in Panama 
related to a tax audit process that began in 2019. The notifications include adjustments to the reported dividend tax for the years 2012 to 2016 and 
income tax 2016. The Company has filed and administrative appeal which is the first legal stage under Panamanian laws. The Company, along with its 
tax advisors, has concluded that it is not probable that an outflow of resources embodying economic benefits will be required to settle these notices. 
According to Panamanian laws, the statute of limitations is 3 and 15 years for income tax and dividend tax, respectively. If after going through the 
appeal process our tax position does not prevail we could have to issue a significant disbursement to the tax authorities. 

Political unrest and instability in Latin American countries in which we operate may adversely affect our business and the market price of our 
Class A shares. 

While geographic diversity helps reduce our exposure to risks in any one country, we operate primarily within Latin America and are thus 
subject to a full range of risks associated with our operations in these regions. These risks may include unstable political or economic conditions, lack of 
well-established or reliable legal systems, exchange controls and other limits on our ability to repatriate earnings and changeable legal and regulatory 
requirements. In Venezuela, for example, we and other airlines and foreign companies may only repatriate cash through specific governmental 
programs, which may effectively preclude us from repatriating cash for periods of time. In addition, Venezuela has experienced difficult political 
conditions and declines in the rate of economic growth in recent periods as well as governmental actions that have adversely impacted businesses that 
operate there. For the year ended December 31, 2019, revenue from the Company’s flights to Venezuela, including connecting traffic, represented about 
6.3% of consolidated revenues and direct flights between Panama and Venezuela. Inflation, any decline in GDP or other future economic, social and 
political developments in Latin America may adversely affect our financial condition or results of operations. 

Although conditions throughout Latin America vary from country to country, our customers’ reactions to developments in Latin America 

generally may result in a reduction in passenger traffic, which could materially and negatively affect our financial condition, results of operations and 
the market price of our Class A shares. 

Risks Relating to Our Class A Shares 

The value of our Class A shares may be adversely affected by ownership restrictions on our capital stock and the power of our Board of 
Directors to take remedial actions to preserve our operating license and international route rights by requiring sales of certain outstanding 
shares or issuing new stock. 

Pursuant to the Panamanian Aviation Act, as amended and interpreted to date, and certain of the bilateral treaties affording us the right to 

fly to other countries, we are required to be “substantially owned” and “effectively controlled” by Panamanian nationals. Our failure to comply with 
such requirements could result in the loss of our Panamanian operating license and/or our right to fly to certain important countries. Our Articles of 
Incorporation (Pacto Social) give special powers to our independent directors to take certain significant actions to attempt to ensure that the amount of 
shares held in us by non-Panamanian nationals does not reach a level that could jeopardize our compliance with Panamanian and bilateral ownership 
and control requirements. If our independent directors determine it is reasonably likely that we will be in violation of these ownership and control 
requirements and our Class B shares represent less than 10% of our total outstanding capital stock (excluding newly issued shares sold with the approval 
of our independent director’s committee), our independent directors will have the power to issue additional Class B shares or Class C shares with special 
voting rights solely to Panamanian nationals. See “Item 10B. Memorandum and Articles of Association—Description of Capital Stock.” 

If any of these remedial actions are taken, the trading price of the Class A shares may be materially and adversely affected. An issuance of 

Class C shares could have the effect of discouraging certain changes of control of Copa Holdings or may reduce any voting power that the Class A 
shares enjoy prior to the Class C share issuance. There can be no assurance that we would be able to complete an issuance of Class B shares to 
Panamanian nationals. We cannot be certain that restrictions on ownership by non-Panamanian nationals will not impede the development of an active 
public trading market for the Class A shares, adversely affect the market price of the Class A shares or materially limit our ability to raise capital in 
markets outside of Panama in the future. 

19 

Our controlling shareholder has the ability to direct our business and affairs, and its interests could conflict with those of other shareholders. 

All of our Class B shares, representing approximately 25.9% of the economic interest in Copa Holdings and 100% of the voting power of 
our capital stock, are owned by Corporación de Inversiones Aéreas, S.A., or “CIASA,” a Panamanian entity. CIASA is in turn controlled by a group of 
Panamanian investors. In order to comply with the Panamanian Aviation Act, as amended and interpreted to date, we have amended our organizational 
documents to modify our share capital so that CIASA will continue to exercise voting control of Copa Holdings. CIASA will not be able to transfer its 
voting control unless control of our Company will remain with Panamanian nationals. CIASA will maintain voting control of the Company so long as 
CIASA continues to own a majority of our Class B shares and the Class B shares continue to represent more than 10% of our total share capital 
(excluding newly issued shares sold with the approval of our independent director’s committee). Even if CIASA ceases to own the majority of the 
voting power of our capital stock, CIASA may continue to control our Board of Directors indirectly through its control of our Nominating and 
Corporate Governance Committee. As the controlling shareholder, CIASA may direct us to take actions that could be contrary to other shareholders’ 
interests and under certain circumstances CIASA will be able to prevent other shareholders, including you, from blocking these actions. Also, CIASA 
may prevent change of control transactions that might otherwise provide an opportunity to dispose of or realize a premium on investments in our 
Class A shares. 

The Class A shares will only be permitted to vote in very limited circumstances and may never have full voting rights. 

The holders of Class A shares have no right to vote at our shareholders’ meetings except with respect to corporate transformations of Copa 

Holdings, mergers, consolidations or spin-offs of Copa Holdings, changes of corporate purpose, voluntary delisting of the Class A shares from the 
NYSE, the approval of nominations of our independent directors and amendments to the foregoing provisions that adversely affect the rights and 
privileges of any Class A shares. The holders of Class B shares have the power to elect the Board of Directors and to determine the outcome of all other 
matters to be decided by a vote of shareholders. Class A shares will not have full voting rights unless the Class B shares represent less than 10% of our 
total capital stock (excluding newly issued shares sold with the approval of our independent director’s committee). See “Item 10B. Memorandum and 
Articles of Association—Description of Capital Stock.” We cannot assure that the Class A shares will ever carry full voting rights. 

Substantial future sales of our Class A shares by CIASA could cause the price of the Class A shares to decrease. 

CIASA owns all of our Class B shares, and those Class B shares will be converted into Class A shares if they are sold to non-Panamanian 

investors. In connection with our initial public offering in December 2005, Continental and CIASA reduced their ownership of our total capital stock 
from 49.0% to approximately 27.3% and from 51.0% to approximately 25.1%, respectively. In a follow-on offering in June 2006, Continental further 
reduced its ownership of our total capital stock from 27.3% to 10.0%. In May 2008, we and CIASA released Continental from its standstill obligations 
and they sold down their remaining shares in the public market. CIASA holds registration rights with respect to a significant portion of its shares 
pursuant to a registration rights agreement entered into in connection with our initial public offering. In March 2010, CIASA converted a portion of its 
Class B shares into 1.6 million non-voting Class A shares and sold such Class A shares in an SEC-registered public offering. In the event CIASA seeks 
to reduce its ownership below 10% of our total share capital, our independent directors may decide to issue special voting shares solely to Panamanian 
nationals to maintain the ownership requirements mandated by the Panamanian Aviation Act. As a result, the market price of our Class A shares could 
drop significantly if CIASA further reduces its investment in us, other significant holders of our shares sell a significant number of shares or if the 
market perceives that CIASA or other significant holders intend to sell their shares. As of December 31, 2019 CIASA owned 25.9% of Copa Holdings’ 
total capital stock. 

Holders of our common stock are not entitled to preemptive rights, and as a result, shareholders may experience substantial dilution upon 
future issuances of stock by us. 

Under Panamanian corporate law and our organizational documents, holders of our Class A shares are not entitled to any preemptive rights 

with respect to future issuances of capital stock by us. Therefore, unlike companies organized under the laws of many other Latin American 
jurisdictions, we are free to issue new shares of stock to other parties without first offering them to our existing Class A shareholders. In the future we 
may sell Class A or other shares to persons other than our existing shareholders at a lower price than the shares already sold, and as a result, 
shareholders may experience substantial dilution of their interest in us. 

20 

Shareholders may not be able to sell our Class A shares at the price or at the time desired because an active or liquid market for the Class A 
shares may not continue. 

Our Class A shares are listed on the NYSE. During the three months ended December 31, 2019, the average daily trading volume for our 
Class A shares as reported by the NYSE was approximately 272,642 shares. Active, liquid trading markets generally result in lower price volatility and 
more efficient execution of buy and sell orders for our investors. The liquidity of a securities market is often affected by the volume of shares publicly 
held by unrelated parties. We cannot predict whether an active liquid public trading market for our Class A shares will be sustained. 

Our operations in Cuba may adversely affect the market price of our Class A shares 

We currently offer passenger, cargo and mail transportation services to and from Cuba. For the year ended December 31, 2019, our 

transported passengers to and from Cuba represented approximately 4.8% of our total passengers. Our operating revenues from Cuban operations during 
the year ended December 31, 2019 represented approximately 2.0% of our total consolidated operating revenues for such year. Our assets located in 
Cuba are not significant. 

The U.S. Department of the Treasury’s Office of Foreign Assets Control (OFAC) administers and enforces economic and trade sanctions 

based on U.S. foreign policy against Cuba, and groups opposed to the Cuban regime may seek to use U.S. sanctions to exert pressure on companies 
doing business in Cuba. Although Cuba has been removed from the U.S. Department of State’s list of state sponsors of terrorism, uncertainty remains 
over the future of U.S. economic sanctions against Cuba and the impact such sanctions will have on our operations, particularly if the United States 
impose additional relevant sanctions. Additionally, on March 4, 2019, the U.S. Department of State announced that the U.S. government would issue 
only a limited suspension of Title III of the Cuban Liberty and Democratic Solidarity (Libertad) Act of 1996 (popularly known as the Helms-Burton 
Act) for an additional 30 days. Title III of Helms-Burton, which has been suspended since 1996, provides a cause of action for U.S. nationals to bring 
claims against any person who traffics in property expropriated by the Cuban Government. Both the possibility that the U.S. government decides to no 
longer suspend Title III of Helms-Burton and the scope of any potential claims are uncertain. If Title III of Helms-Burton comes into force, companies 
such as ours with commercial dealings in Cuba could face claims for damages. 

Certain U.S. states have enacted or may enact legislation regarding investments by state-owned investors, such as public employee pension 

funds and state university endowments, in companies that have business activities with Cuba. As a result, such state-owned institutional investors may 
be subject to restrictions with respect to investments in companies such as ours, which could adversely affect the market for our shares. 

Our Board of Directors may, in its discretion, amend or repeal our dividend policy. Shareholders may not receive the level of dividends 
provided for in the dividend policy or any dividends at all. 

In February 2016, the Board of Directors approved a change to the dividend policy to limit aggregate annual dividends to an amount equal 

to 40% of the previous year’s annual consolidated underlying net income, to be distributed in equal quarterly installments subject to board ratification 
each quarter. Our Board of Directors may, in its sole discretion and for any reason, amend or repeal any aspect of this dividend policy. Our Board of 
Directors may decrease the level of dividends provided for in this dividend policy or entirely discontinue the payment of dividends. Future dividends 
with respect to shares of our common stock, if any, will depend on, among other things, our results of operations, cash requirements, financial condition, 
contractual restrictions, business opportunities, provisions of applicable law and other factors that our Board of Directors may deem relevant. See “Item 
8A. Consolidated Statements and Other Financial Information—Dividend Policy.” 

To the extent we pay dividends to our shareholders, we will have less capital available to meet our future liquidity needs. 

Our Board of Directors has reserved the right to amend the dividend policy or pay dividends in excess of the level circumscribed in the 
dividend policy. The aviation industry has cyclical characteristics, and many international airlines are currently experiencing difficulties meeting their 
liquidity needs. Also, our business strategy contemplates growth over the next several years, and we expect such growth will require a great deal of 
liquidity. To the extent that we pay dividends in accordance with, or in excess of, our dividend policy, the money that we distribute to shareholders will 
not be available to us to fund future growth and meet our other liquidity needs. 

21 

Our Articles of Incorporation impose ownership and control restrictions on our Company that ensure that Panamanian nationals will 
continue to control us and these restrictions operate to prevent any change of control or some transfers of ownership in order to comply with 
the Aviation Act and other bilateral restrictions. 

Under Law No. 21 of January 29, 2003, as amended and interpreted to date, or the “Aviation Act”, which regulates the aviation industry in 

the Republic of Panama, Panamanian nationals must exercise “effective control” over the operations of the airline and must maintain “substantial 
ownership”. Under certain of the bilateral agreements between Panama and other countries pursuant to which we have the right to fly to those other 
countries and over their territories, we must also continue to have substantial Panamanian ownership and effective control by Panamanian nationals to 
retain these rights. On November 25, 2005, the Executive Branch of the Government of Panama promulgated a decree stating that the “substantial 
ownership” and “effective control” requirements of the Aviation Act are met if a Panamanian citizen or a Panamanian company is the record holder of 
shares representing 51% or more of the voting power of the Company. Although the decree has the force of law for so long as it remains in effect, it 
does not supersede the Aviation Act, and it could be modified or superseded at any time by a future Executive Branch decree. Additionally, the decree 
has no binding effect on regulatory authorities of other countries whose bilateral agreements impose Panamanian ownership and control limitations on 
us. These phrases are not defined in the Aviation Act itself or in the bilateral agreements to which Panama is a party, and it is unclear how a Panamanian 
court or, in the case of the bilateral agreements, foreign regulatory authorities, would interpret them. 

The share ownership requirements and transfer restrictions contained in our Articles of Incorporation, as well as the dual-class structure of 
our voting capital stock, are designed to ensure compliance with these ownership and control restrictions. See “Item 10B. Memorandum and Articles of 
Association—Description of Capital Stock”. At the present time, CIASA is the record owner of 100% of our Class B voting shares, representing 
approximately 25.9% of our total share capital and all of the voting power of our capital stock. These provisions of our Articles of Incorporation may 
prevent change of control transactions that might otherwise provide an opportunity to realize a premium on investments in our Class A shares. They also 
ensure that Panamanians will continue to control all the decisions of our Company for the foreseeable future. 

The protections afforded to minority shareholders in Panama are different from and more limited than those in the United States and may be 
more difficult to enforce. 

Under Panamanian law, the protections afforded to minority shareholders are different from, and much more limited than, those in the 

United States and some other Latin American countries. For example, the legal framework with respect to shareholder disputes is less developed under 
Panamanian law than under U.S. law and there are different procedural requirements for bringing shareholder lawsuits, including shareholder derivative 
suits. As a result, it may be more difficult for our minority shareholders to enforce their rights against us or our directors or controlling shareholder than 
it would be for shareholders of a U.S. company. In addition, Panamanian law does not afford minority shareholders as many protections for investors 
through corporate governance mechanisms as in the United States and provides no mandatory tender offer or similar protective mechanisms for minority 
shareholders in the event of a change in control. While our Articles of Incorporation provide limited rights to holders of our Class A shares to sell their 
shares at the same price as CIASA in the event that a sale of Class B shares by CIASA results in the purchaser having the right to elect a majority of our 
board, there are other change of control transactions in which holders of our Class A shares would not have the right to participate, including the sale of 
interests by a party that had previously acquired Class B shares from CIASA, the sale of interests by another party in conjunction with a sale by CIASA, 
the sale by CIASA of control to more than one party, or the sale of controlling interests in CIASA itself. 

22 

Item 4. Information on the Company 

A. History and Development of the Company 

General 

Copa was established in 1947 by a group of Panamanian investors and Pan American World Airways, which provided technical and 

economic assistance as well as capital. Initially, Copa served three domestic destinations in Panama with a fleet of three Douglas C-47 aircraft. In the 
1960s, Copa began its international service with three weekly flights to cities in Costa Rica, Jamaica and Colombia using a small fleet of Avro 748s and 
Electra 188s. In 1971, Pan American World Airways sold its stake in Copa to a group of Panamanian investors who retained control of the airline until 
1986. During the 1980s, Copa suspended its domestic service to focus on international flights. 

In 1986, CIASA purchased 99% of Copa, which was controlled by the group of Panamanian shareholders who currently control CIASA. 

From 1992 until 1998, Copa was a part of a commercial alliance with Grupo TACA’s network of Central American airline carriers. In 1997, together 
with Grupo TACA, Copa entered into a strategic alliance with American Airlines. After a year our alliance with American Airlines was terminated by 
mutual consent. 

On May 6, 1998, Copa Holdings, S.A., the holding company for Copa and related companies was incorporated as a sociedad 

anónima under the laws of Panama to facilitate the sale by CIASA of a 49% stake in Copa Holdings to Continental. In connection with Continental’s 
investment, we entered into an extensive alliance agreement with Continental providing for code-sharing, joint marketing, technical exchanges and other 
cooperative initiatives between the airlines. At the time of our initial public offering in December 2005, Continental reduced its ownership of our total 
capital stock from 49% to approximately 27.3%. In a follow-on offering in June 2006, Continental further reduced its ownership of our total capital 
stock from 27.3% to 10.0%. In May 2008, Continental sold its remaining shares in the public market. In March 2010, CIASA sold 4.2% of its interest 
and as of December 31, 2019 held 25.9% of our total capital stock. 

Since 1998, we have grown and modernized our fleet while improving customer service and reliability. Copa has expanded its operational 

fleet from 13 aircraft to 102 aircraft at December 31, 2019. In 1999, we received our first Boeing 737-700s, in 2003 we received our first Boeing 
737-800, and in 2005 we received our first Embraer 190. In the first quarter of 2005, we completed our fleet renovation program and discontinued the 
use of our last Boeing 737-200. Since 2005, we have expanded from 24 destinations in 18 countries to 80 destinations in 33 countries. We plan to 
continue our expansion, which includes increasing our fleet, over the next several years. In 2018, we took delivery of our first four Boeing 737 MAX 9 
aircraft. 

On April 22, 2005, we acquired an initial 85.6% equity ownership interest in AeroRepública, which was one of the largest domestic 

carriers in Colombia in terms of passengers carried. Through subsequent acquisitions, we increased our total ownership interest in AeroRepública to 
99.9% by the end of that year. We believe that Copa Airlines’ operational coordination with Copa Colombia creates additional passenger traffic in our 
existing route network by providing Colombian passengers more convenient access to the international destinations served through our Panama hub. 

In July 2015, we elected to cease co-branding the MileagePlus frequent flyer program in Latin America and launched our own frequent 

flyer program, ConnectMiles. We have reached a scale where establishing our own direct relationship with our customers is warranted. Copa and UAL 
will remain strong loyalty partners through our participation in Star Alliance. 

In December 2016, we launched a low-cost business model, Wingo, to diversify our offerings and to better compete with other low- cost 

carriers in the markets. Wingo serves domestic flights in Colombia and some international cities to and from Colombia. 

In addition, on November 30, 2018, we disclosed that we have entered into a three-way joint business agreement (“JBA”) with UAL and 
Avianca that is intended to cover our combined network between the United States and Latin America (except Brazil). We, UAL and Avianca intend to 
apply for regulatory approval of the JBA and an accompanying grant of antitrust immunity from the U.S. Department of Transportation and other 
relevant agencies. However, with the recently coronavirus (COVID-19) outbreak, we can provide no assurances of the approvals and subsequence 
implementation of the JBA. 

Our registered office is located at Avenida Principal y Avenida de la Rotonda, Urbanización Costa del Este, Complejo Business Park, 

Torre Norte, Parque Lefevre, Panama City, Panama and our telephone number is +507 304-2774. The website of Copa Airlines is www.copaair.com. 
Information contained on, or accessible through, this website is not incorporated by reference herein and shall not be considered part of this annual 
report. Our agent for service of process in the United States is Puglisi & Associates, 850 Library Avenue, Suite 204, Newark, Delaware 19715, and its 
telephone number is +(302) 738-6680. Also, the SEC maintains an internet site (www.sec.gov) that contains reports, proxy and information statements 
and other information about the Company that the Company has filed electronically with the SEC. 

23 

Capital Expenditures 

During 2019, our capital expenditures were $131.8 million, which consisted of advance payments on aircraft purchase contracts and 

acquisition of property and equipment, offset by reimbursement of advance payments on aircraft purchase contracts. During 2018, our capital 
expenditures were $183.1 million, which consisted primarily of advance payments on aircraft purchase contracts, offset by reimbursement of advance 
payments on aircraft purchase contracts. During 2017, our capital expenditures were $272.4 million, which consisted primarily of the acquisition of 
property and equipment, offset by reimbursement of advance payments on aircraft purchase contracts. 

B. Business Overview 

We are a leading Latin American provider of airline passenger and cargo service through our two principal operating subsidiaries, Copa 
Airlines and Copa Colombia. Copa Airlines operates from its strategically-located position in the Republic of Panama, and Copa Colombia flies from 
Colombia to Copa Airlines Hub of the Americas in Panama, and operates a low-cost business model within Colombia and various cities in the region. 
As of December 31, 2019 we operate a fleet of 102 aircraft, 82 Boeing 737-Next Generation aircraft, 14 Embraer 190 aircraft and six Boeing 737 MAX 
9 aircraft to meet our growing capacity requirements. The Company had one purchase contract with Boeing which entails 65 firm orders of Boeing 737 
MAX aircraft, agreed to be delivered between 2020 and 2025. 

Copa currently offers approximately 361 daily scheduled flights among 80 destinations in 33 countries in North, Central and South 

America and the Caribbean from its Panama City hub. Copa provides passengers with access to flights to more than 200 other destinations through 
code-share arrangements with UAL and other airlines pursuant to which each airline places its name and flight designation code on the other’s flights. 
Through its Panama City hub, Copa is able to consolidate passenger traffic from multiple points to serve each destination effectively. 

Copa has a strategic alliance with United Airlines, or “UAL” or “United,” that encompass joint marketing strategies and code-sharing 

arrangements, among other things. In addition, Copa has entered into a three-way JBA with UAL and Avianca that is intended to cover our combined 
network between the United States and Latin America (except Brazil). Copa has been a member of Star Alliance since June 2012. 

Since January 2001, we have grown significantly and have established a track record of consistent profitability. Our total operating 

revenues increased from $0.3 billion in 2001 to $2.7 billion in 2019 while our operating income also increased from $25.0 million to $346.2 million 
over the same period. 

Our Strengths 

We believe our primary business strengths that have allowed us to compete successfully in the airline industry include the following: 

•

•

Our “Hub of the Americas” airport is strategically located. We believe that Copa’s base of operations at the 
geographically central location of Tocumen International Airport in Panama City, Panama provides convenient connections 
to our principal markets in North, Central and South America and the Caribbean, enabling us to consolidate traffic to serve 
several destinations that do not generate enough demand to justify point-to-point service. Flights from Panama operate with 
few service disruptions due to weather, contributing to high completion factors and on-time performance. Tocumen 
International Airport’s sea-level altitude allows our aircraft to operate without the performance restrictions they would be 
subject to in higher altitude airports. We believe that Copa’s hub in Panama allows us to benefit from Panama City’s status 
as a center for financial services, shipping and commerce and from Panama’s stable, dollar-based economy, free-trade zone 
and growing tourism. 

We focus on keeping our operating costs low. In recent years, our low operating costs and efficiency have contributed 
significantly to our profitability. Our operating CASM, excluding costs for fuel was 6.63¢ in 2019, 6.79¢ in 2018, 6.31¢ in 
2017, 6.48¢ in 2016 and 6.45¢ in 2015. We believe that our cost per available seat mile reflects our modern fleet, efficient 
operations and the competitive cost of labor in Panama. 

24 

•

•

•

We operate a modern fleet. Our fleet consists of Boeing 737-MAX, Boeing 737 -Next Generation and Embraer 190 aircraft 
equipped with winglets and other modern cost-saving and safety features. Over the next several years, we intend to enhance 
our modern fleet through the addition of 65 Boeing 737 MAX aircraft to be delivered between 2020 and 2025. We believe 
that our modern fleet contributes to our on-time performance and high completion factor (percentage of scheduled flights 
not cancelled). 

We believe Copa has a strong brand and a reputation for quality service. We believe that the Copa brand is associated with 
value to passengers, providing world-class service and competitive pricing. For the year ended December 31, 2019, Copa’s 
statistic for on-time performance, according to DOT standard methodology of arrivals within 14 minutes of scheduled 
arrival time, was and its completion factor was 99.8%. We believe our focus on customer service has helped to build 
passenger loyalty. In addition, the excellent response to our new loyalty program, ConnectMiles, demonstrates the strong 
affinity Copa customers have for the brand. During 2019, we were recognized by OAG as the second most on-time airline 
in the world, and by Flight Stats, for the seventh consecutive year as the most on-time airline in Latin America. 

Our management fosters a culture of teamwork and continuous improvement. Our management team has been successful at 
creating a culture based on teamwork and focused on continuous improvement. Each of our employees has individual 
objectives based on corporate goals that serve as a basis for measuring performance. When corporate operational and 
financial targets are met, employees are eligible to receive bonuses according to our profit sharing program. See “Item 6D. 
Employees”. We also recognize outstanding performance of individual employees through company-wide recognition, 
one-time awards, special events and, in the case of our senior management, grants of restricted stock and stock options. Our 
goal-oriented culture and incentive programs have contributed to a motivated work force that is focused on satisfying 
customers, achieving efficiencies and growing profitability. 

Our Strategy 

Our goal is to continue to grow profitably and enhance our position as a leader in Latin American aviation by providing a combination of 
superior customer service, convenient schedules and competitive fares, while maintaining competitive costs. The key elements of our business strategy 
include the following: 

•

•

•

Expand our network by increasing frequencies and adding new destinations. We believe that demand for air travel in Latin 
America is likely to expand in the next decade, and we intend to use our increasing fleet capacity to meet this growing 
demand. We intend to focus on expanding our operations by increasing flight frequencies on our most profitable routes and 
initiating service to new destinations. Copa’s Panama City hub allows us to consolidate traffic and provide non-stop or 
one-stop connecting service to over 2,000 city pairs, and we intend to focus on providing new or increased service to 
destinations that we believe best enhance the overall connectivity and profitability of our network. 

Continue to focus on keeping our costs low. We seek to reduce our cost per available seat mile without sacrificing services 
valued by our customers as we execute our growth plans. Our goal is to maintain a modern fleet and to make effective use 
of our resources through efficient aircraft utilization and employee productivity. We intend to reduce our distribution costs 
by increasing direct sales as well as improving efficiency through technology and automated processes. 

Emphasize superior service and value to our customers. We intend to continue to focus on satisfying our customers and 
earning their loyalty by providing a combination of superior service and competitive fares. We believe that continuing our 
operational success in keeping flights on time, reducing mishandled luggage and offering convenient schedules to attractive 
destinations will be essential to achieving this goal. In January 2020, we were recognized by OAG as the second most 
on-time airline in the world and the most on-time airline in Latin America. We intend to continue to incentivize our 
employees to improve or maintain operating and service metrics relating to our customers’ satisfaction by continuing our 
profit sharing plan and employee recognition programs. We will continue to reward our customer loyalty with, 
ConnectMiles awards, upgrades and access to our Copa Club lounges. 

Industry 

In Latin America, the scheduled passenger service market consists of three principal groups of travelers: strictly leisure, business and 
travelers visiting friends and family. Leisure passengers and passengers visiting friends and family typically place a higher emphasis on lower fares, 
whereas business passengers typically place a higher emphasis on flight frequency, on-time performance, breadth of network and service enhancements, 
including loyalty programs and airport lounges. 

25 

According to data from the International Air Transport Association, or “IATA”, Latin America comprised approximately 6.9% of 

international worldwide passengers flown in 2018 or 302 million passengers. 

The Central American aviation market is dominated by international traffic. According to data from IATA, international revenue 

passenger kilometers, or “RPKs”, are concentrated between North America and Central America. This segment represented 75% of international RPKs 
flown to and from Central America in 2018, compared to 17.9% RPKs flown between Central America and South America and 6.7% for RPKs flown 
between Central American countries. Total RPKs flown on international flights to and from Central America increased 7.1%, and load factors on 
international flights to and from Central America were 84% on average. 

The chart below details passenger traffic between regions in 2018: 

North America - Central America / Caribbean
North America - South America
Within South America
Central America/Caribbean - South America
Within Central America

Passenger Kms Flown

2018 IATA Traffic Results
Available Seat Kms

(Millions)
151,067
120,118
41,401
35,785
13,372

Change (%)
4.4
4.6
0.6
7.1
5.5

(Millions)
184,490
145,210
51,690
43,598
17,291

Change (%)
4.0
5.6
2.0
8.0
3.9

Passenger Load Factor
Load
Factor

81.9% 
82.7% 
80.1% 
82.1% 
77.3% 

Change (%)
0.3 p.p.
0.3 p.p.
-1.1 p.p.
-0.7 p.p.
1.2 p.p.

Panama serves as a hub for connecting passenger traffic between major markets in North, South, and Central America and the Caribbean. 

Accordingly, passenger traffic to and from Panama is significantly influenced by economic growth in surrounding regions. Major passenger traffic 
markets in North, South and Central America experienced growth in their GDP in 2019. Preliminary figures indicate that real GDP increased by 4.3% in 
Panama and by 3.4% in Colombia, according to data of the World Economic and Financial Survey conducted by the International Monetary Fund or 
“IMF”. 

Argentina
Brazil
Chile
Colombia
Mexico
Panama
USA

GDP (in US$ billions)
2019
Current Prices
(US$)

2019
Real GDP
(% Growth)

GDP per Capita
2019
Current Prices
(US$)

445
1,847
294
328
1,274
69
21,439

(3.1) 
0.9
2.5
3.4
0.4
4.3
2.4

9,888
8,797
15,399
6,508
10,118
16,245
65,112

Source: International Monetary Fund, World Economic Outlook Database, October 2019 

Panama has benefited from a stable economy with moderate inflation and steady GDP growth. According to IMF estimates, from 2013 to 

2019, Panama’s real GDP grew at an average annual rate of 5.1%, while inflation averaged 1.3% per year. The IMF currently estimates Panama’s 
population to be approximately 4.2 million in 2019, with the majority of the population concentrated in Panama City, where our hub at Tocumen 
International Airport is located. We believe the combination of a stable, service-oriented economy and steady population growth has helped drive our 
domestic origin and destination passenger traffic. 

26 

Domestic travel within Panama primarily consists of individuals visiting families as well as domestic and foreign tourists visiting the 

countryside. Most of this travel is done via ground transportation, and its main flow is to and from Panama City, where most of the economic activity 
and population is concentrated. Demand for domestic air travel is growing and relates primarily to leisure travel from foreign and local tourists. Since 
January 2015, Copa has operated daily flights to the second-largest city in Panama, David in Chiriqui. The remaining market is served primarily by one 
local airline, Air Panama, which operates a fleet primarily consisting of turbo prop aircraft generally with less than 50 seats. This airline offers limited 
international service and operates in the secondary Marcos Gelabert airport of Panama City, which is located 30 minutes by car from Tocumen 
International Airport. 

Colombia is the third largest country in Latin America in terms of population, with a population of approximately 50.4 million in 2019 

according to the IMF, and has a land area of approximately 440,000 square miles. Colombia’s GDP is estimated to be $327.9 billion for 2019, and per 
capita income was approximately $6.5 thousand (current prices) according to the IMF. Colombia’s geography is marked by the Andean mountains and 
an inadequate road and rail infrastructure, making air travel a convenient and attractive transportation alternative. Colombia shares a border with 
Panama, and for historic, cultural and business reasons it represents a significant market for many Panamanian businesses. 

Route Network and Schedules 

As of December 31, 2019, Copa provided regularly-scheduled flights to 80 cities in North, Central and South America and the Caribbean. 

The majority of Copa flights operate through our hub in Panama City which allows us to transport passengers and cargo among a large number of 
destinations with service that is more frequent than if each route were served directly. 

We believe our hub-and-spoke model is the most efficient way for us to operate our business since most of the origination/destination city 
pairs we serve do not generate sufficient traffic to justify point-to-point service. Also, since we serve many countries, it would be very difficult to obtain 
the bilateral route rights necessary to operate a competitive network-wide point-to-point system. 

Copa schedules its hub flights using a “connecting bank” structure, where flights arrive at the hub at approximately the same time and 

depart a short time later. In June 2011, we increased our banks of flights from four to six a day. This allowed us to increase efficiency in the use of hub 
infrastructure in addition to providing more time of day choices to passengers. 

As a part of our strategic relationship with UAL, Copa provides flights through code-sharing arrangements to over 200 other destinations. 

In addition to code-shares provided with our Star Alliance partners, Copa also has code-sharing arrangements in place with several other carriers, 
including Air France, KLM, Iberia, Air Europa, Emirates, Gol, Azul, Tame, Cubana and Aeromexico. 

In addition to increasing the frequencies to destinations we already serve, Copa’s business strategy is also focused on adding new 

destinations across Latin America, the Caribbean and North America in order to increase the attractiveness of our Hub of the Americas at Tocumen 
International Airport for intra-American traffic. We currently plan to introduce new destinations and to increase frequencies to many of the destinations 
that Copa currently serves. Our fleet allows us to improve our service by increasing frequencies and service to new destinations with the right-sized 
aircraft. 

In December 2016, we launched a low-cost business model, Wingo, to diversify our offerings and to better compete with other low-cost 

carriers in the markets. Wingo serves domestic flights in Colombia and some international cities to and from Colombia. We also expect to incorporate a 
new Wingo operator, La Nueva Aerolínea S.A., which will be based in Panama and will initially operate one 737-800 from the Panama Pacífico 
International Airport outside of Panama City. 

Our plans to introduce new destinations and increase frequencies depend on the allocation of route rights, a process over which we do not 

have direct influence. Route rights are allocated through negotiations between the government of Panama and Colombia, and the governments of 
countries to which we intend to increase flights. If we are unable to obtain route rights, we will exercise the flexibility within our route network to 
re-allocate capacity as appropriate. 

27 

Revenue by Region 

The following table shows our revenue generated in each of our major operating regions. 

Region
North America (1)
South America
Central America (2)
Caribbean (3)

Year Ended December 31,
2016
2017
2018

2019
32.0%  31.2%  29.6%  28.8%  24.8% 
36.4%  40.6%  42.2%  42.2%  45.7% 
27.7%  24.5%  24.5%  23.1%  23.3% 
6.2% 
3.7% 
3.8% 

5.9% 

3.7% 

2015

Includes USA, Canada, Mexico 
Includes Panama 

(1)
(2)
(3) Cuba, Dominican Republic, Haiti, Jamaica, Puerto Rico, Aruba, Curaçao, St. Maarten, Bahamas, Barbados, and Trinidad and Tobago 

Airline Operations 

Passenger Operations 

Passenger revenue accounted for approximately $2,612.6 million in 2019, $2,587.4 million in 2018, and $2,444.3 million in 2017, 

representing 96.5%, 96.6%, and 96.9%, respectively, of Copa’s total revenues. Leisure traffic, which makes up close to half of Copa’s total traffic, tends 
to coincide with holidays, school vacations and cultural events and peaks in July and August, and again in December and January. Despite these 
seasonal variations, Copa’s overall traffic pattern is relatively stable due to the constant influx of business travelers. Approximately one third of Copa’s 
passengers regard Panama City as their destination or origination point, and most of the remaining passengers pass through Panama City in transit to 
other points on our route network. 

Cargo Operations 

In addition to our passenger service, we make efficient use of extra capacity in the belly of our aircraft by carrying cargo. Our cargo 

operations consist principally of freight service. Copa’s cargo business generated revenues of approximately $62.5 million in 2019, $62.5 million in 
2018, and $55.3 million in 2017, representing 2.3%, 2.3%, and 2.2% respectively, of Copa’s operating revenues. We primarily move our cargo in the 
belly of our aircraft; however, we also wet-lease and charter freighter capacity when necessary to meet our cargo customers’ needs. 

Pricing and Revenue Management 

Copa has designed its fare structure to balance its load factors and yields in a way that it believes will maximize profits on its flights. Copa 

also maintains revenue management policies and procedures that are intended to maximize total revenues, while remaining generally competitive with 
those of our major competitors. Copa uses Revenue Manager (RMS), the revenue management software designed by Sabre. 

Copa charges higher fares for tickets sold on higher-demand routes, tickets purchased on short notice and other itineraries suggesting a 
passenger would be willing to pay a premium. This represents strong value to Copa’s business customers, who need more flexibility with their flight 
plans. The number of seats Copa offers at each fare level in each market results from a continual process of analysis and forecasting. Past booking 
history, seasonality, the effects of competition and current booking trends are used to forecast demand. Current fares and knowledge of upcoming events 
at destinations that will affect traffic volumes are included in Copa’s forecasting model to arrive at optimal seat allocations for its fares on specific 
routes. Copa uses a combination of approaches, taking into account yields, flight load factors and effects on load factors of continuing traffic, depending 
on the characteristics of the markets served, to arrive at a strategy for achieving the best possible revenue per available seat mile, balancing the average 
fare charged against the corresponding effect on our load factors. 

28 

Relationship with UAL 

In May 1998, Copa Airlines and Continental entered into a comprehensive alliance agreement to offer a more complete and seamless 

travel experience to passengers. The agreement encompasses a broad array of activities, including Copa’s participation in Continental’s frequent flyer 
programs and VIP lounges, as well as trademark agreements merged to permit joint marketing activities. Continental became a subsidiary of UAL after 
its merger with United Airlines in 2010, and UAL has recognized all benefits of our original alliance with Continental. 

As a result of our alliance, we have benefited from Continental’s and UAL’s expertise and experience over the years. For example, prior to 

July 2015 when we launched our own frequent flyer program, ConnectMiles, we adopted Continental’s OnePass (now UAL’s MileagePlus) frequent 
flyer program and rolled out a co-branded joint product in most of Latin America, which enabled Copa to develop brand loyalty among travelers. The 
co-branding of the OnePass (now MileagePlus) loyalty program helped Copa to leverage the brand recognition that Continental already enjoyed across 
Latin America and has enabled Copa to compete more effectively against regional competitors such as Avianca and the Oneworld alliance represented 
by American Airlines and LATAM Airlines. We also have adopted several important information technology systems, such as the SHARES computer 
reservation system in an effort to maintain commonality with UAL. 

Our alliance relationship with UAL enjoys a grant of antitrust immunity from the U.S. Department of Transportation, or “DOT”. The 
agreement expires in 2021, and is terminable by either airline in cases of, among other things, uncured material breaches of the alliance agreement, 
bankruptcy, termination of the services agreement for breach, termination of the frequent flyer participation agreement without entering into a successor 
agreement, certain competitive activities, certain changes of control of either of the parties and certain significant operational service failures. 

Copa Holdings is also a party to a supplemental agreement with CIASA and Continental entered into in connection with Continental’s 

May 1998 offering of our shares. Pursuant to the supplemental agreement, Continental received the right to appoint a member of its senior management 
to our Board of Directors during the term of our alliance agreement with Continental. 

Frequent Flyer Participation Agreement. In July 2015, we elected to cease co-branding the MileagePlus frequent flyer program in Latin 

America and launched our own frequent flyer program, ConnectMiles. We have reached a scale where establishing our own direct relationship with our 
customers is warranted. Copa and UAL will remain strong loyalty partners through our participation in Star Alliance. 

Trademark License Agreement. Under our trademark license agreement with UAL, we have the right to use a logo incorporating a design 

that is similar to the design of the new UAL logo. We also have the right to use UAL’s trade dress, aircraft livery and certain other UAL marks under 
the agreement that allow us to more closely align our overall product with our strategic alliance partner. The trademark license agreement is coterminous 
with the alliance agreement and can also be terminated for breach. In most cases, we have a period of five years after termination to cease to use the 
marks on our aircraft, with less time provided for signage and other uses of the marks or in cases where the agreement is terminated for a breach by us. 

Joint Business Agreement 

In November 2018, Copa Airlines announced it has reached an agreement with UAL and Avianca for a JBA that, pending government 
approval, is expected to provide substantial benefits for customers, communities and the marketplace for air travel between the United States and 19 
countries in Central and South America. 

By integrating their complementary route networks into a collaborative revenue-sharing JBA, Copa, United and Avianca will offer 

customers many benefits, including: 

•

•

•

•

Integrated, seamless service in more than 12,000 city pairs. 

New nonstop routes. 

Additional flights on existing routes, and 

Reduced travel times. 

The carriers expect the agreement to drive significant traffic growth at major gateway cities throughout Latin America, which the carriers 

believe should help bring new investment and create more economic development opportunities for their communities. Further, the carriers anticipate 
the JBA will provide customers with expanded codeshare flight options, competitive fares and a more streamlined travel experience. 

29 

Additionally, allowing the three carriers to serve customers as if they were a single airline is expected to enable the companies to better 

align their frequent flyer programs, coordinate flight schedules and look to improve the overall travel experience. 

To enable the deep coordination required to deliver these benefits to consumers, communities and the marketplace, Copa, United and 

Avianca plan to apply for regulatory approval of the agreement and an accompanying grant of antitrust immunity from the DOT and other regulatory 
agencies. The parties plan to fully implement the JBA after receiving the necessary government approvals. 

The JBA currently includes cooperation between the U.S. and Central and South America, excluding Brazil. With the recently concluded 

Open Skies agreement between the US and Brazil, the carriers are exploring the possibility of adding Brazil to the JBA. 

Once approved, the JBA will enable deep commercial and strategic cooperation that will apply exclusively in the itineraries between Latin 

America and the U.S. contemplated in the agreement, but each of the three airlines will remain independent companies. However, with the recently 
coronavirus (COVID-19) outbreak, we can provide no assurances of the approvals and subsequence implementation of the JBA. 

Sales, Marketing and Distribution 

Sales and Distribution. Approximately 65.7% of sales during 2019 were completed through travel agents, including OTAs and other 

airlines while approximately 34.3% were direct sales via our city ticket offices, or “CTOs”, call centers, airport counters or website. In recent years, 
travel agents’ base commissions have decreased significantly in most markets as more efficient back-end incentive programs have been implemented to 
reward selected travel agencies that exceed their sales targets. 

Travel agents obtain airline travel information and issue airline tickets through global distribution systems, or “GDSs”, that enable them to 

make reservations on flights from a large number of airlines. GDSs are also used by travel agents to make hotel and car rental reservations. Copa 
participates actively in all major international GDSs, including SABRE, Amadeus, Galileo and Worldspan. In return for access to these systems, Copa 
pays transaction fees that are generally based on the number of reservations booked through each system. 

Copa has a sales and marketing network consisting of 63 domestic and international ticket offices, including city ticket offices located in 

Panama and Colombia, in addition to the airports where we operate. 

The call center that operates Copa’s reservations and sales services handles calls from Panama as well as most other countries to which 

Copa flies. Such centralization has resulted in a significant increase in telephone sales, as it efficiently allows for improvements in service levels such as 
24-hour-a-day, 7-days-a-week service, in three different languages. 

Advertising and Promotional Activities. In recent years, we have increased our use of digital marketing, including social media via 

Facebook, Instagram and Twitter to enhance our brand image and engage customers in a new way. Although the majority of our efforts are currently 
focused on digital channels, our advertising and promotional activities also include the use of television, print, radio and billboards, as well as targeted 
public relation events in the cities where we fly. We believe that the corporate traveler is an important part of our business, and we particularly promote 
our service to these customers by conveying the reliability, convenience and consistency of our service and offering value-added services such as 
convention and conference travel arrangements. We also promote package deals for the destinations where we fly through combined efforts with 
selected hotels and travel agencies. 

Competition 

We face considerable competition throughout our route network. Overall airline industry profit margins are relatively low and industry 
earnings are volatile. Airlines compete in the areas of pricing, scheduling (frequency and flight times), on-time performance, frequent flyer programs 
and other services. Strategic alliances, bankruptcy restructurings and industry consolidations characterize the airline industry and tend to intensify 
competition. 

Copa competes with a number of other airlines that currently serve the routes on which we operate, including Avianca, American Airlines, 
Delta Airlines, Spirit, JetBlue, Azul, Aeromexico, Gol, Interjet, Volaris and LATAM, among others. In order to remain competitive, we must constantly 
react to changes in prices and services offered by our competitors. 

30 

The airline industry continues to experience increased consolidation and changes in international alliances, both of which have altered and 
will continue to alter the competitive landscape in the industry by resulting in the formation of airlines and alliances with increased financial resources, 
more extensive global networks and altered cost structures. 

The airline industry is highly susceptible to price discounting, particularly because airlines incur very low marginal costs for providing 

service to passengers occupying otherwise unsold seats. Carriers use discount fares to stimulate traffic during periods of lower demand to generate cash 
flow and to increase market share. Any lower fares offered by one airline are often matched by competing airlines, which frequently results in lower 
industry yields with little or no increase in traffic levels. Price competition among airlines could lead to lower fares or passenger traffic on some or all of 
our routes, which could negatively impact our profitability. 

Airlines based in other countries may also receive subsidies, tax incentives or other state aid from their respective governments, which are 

not provided by the Panamanian government. The commencement of, or increase in, service on the routes we serve by existing or new carriers could 
negatively impact our operating results. Likewise, competitors’ service on routes that we are targeting for expansion may make those expansion plans 
less attractive. We must constantly react to changes in prices and services offered by our competitors to remain competitive. 

Traditional hub-and-spoke carriers in the United States and Europe have in recent years faced substantial and increasing competitive 

pressure from low-cost carriers offering discounted fares. The low-cost carriers’ operations are typically characterized by point-to-point route networks 
focusing on the highest demand city pairs, high aircraft utilization, single class service and fewer in-flight amenities. As evidenced by the operations of 
competitors in South and Central American countries it is clear that low-cost carriers are gaining acceptance in the Latin American aviation industry. 

With respect to our cargo operations, we will continue to face competition from all of the major airfreight companies, most notably DHL, 

which has a cargo hub operation at Tocumen International Airport. 

Aircraft 

As of December 31, 2019, Copa operated a fleet consisting of 102 aircraft, including 14 Boeing 737-700 Next Generation aircraft, 68 

Boeing 737-800 Next Generation aircraft and 14 Embraer 190 aircraft. Since March 2019, the six Copa’s Boeing 737 MAX 9 aircraft have been 
temporarily grounded as a function of the worldwide grounding of the 737 MAX fleet. As of December 31, 2019, Copa had firm orders to purchase 65 
Boeing 737 MAX aircraft to be delivered between 2020 and 2025. In October 2018 Copa signed an aircraft sale and purchase agreement with Azorra 
Aviation for the sale of five Embraer 190 aircraft in 2019. During 2019, we announced our intention to accelerate the exit of our entire Embraer 190 
fleet by selling the remaining 14 aircraft by 2020. 

The current composition of the Copa fleet as of December 31, 2019 is fully described below: 

Boeing 737 MAX
Boeing 737-700
Boeing 737-800
Embraer 190
Total

Average Term of Lease

Number of Aircraft
Owned
Total
6
6
12
14
41
68
14
14
73
102

Leased
0
2
27
0
29

Remaining
(Years)

—  
1.3
2.9
—  
2.8

Average
Age
(Years)
1.1
17.6
7.4
12.7
9.2

Seating
Capacity

166
124
154/160/186
94
—  

31 

The table below describes the expected size of our fleet at the end of each year set forth below, assuming delivery of all aircraft for which 

we currently have firm orders but not taking into account any aircraft for which we have purchase rights and options: 

Aircraft Type
737-700(1)
737-800
737-MAX(2)
Embraer 190(3)
Total Fleet

2020
14
68
16
9
107

2021
14
64
29
0
107

2022
13
59
41
0
113

2023
14
50
53
0
117

2024
14
42
63
0
119

(1) Assumes the return of leased aircraft upon expiration of lease contracts. 
(2) We have the flexibility to choose between the different members of the 737 MAX family. The delivery schedule above reflects contractual 
commitments; although, the timing of future deliveries is uncertain due to the mandatory grounding of Boeing 737 MAX 9 aircraft. 

(3) Assumes the sale of the remainder of our Embraer 190 fleet. 

The Boeing 737 aircraft currently in our fleet are fuel-efficient and suit our operations well for the following reasons: 

•

•

•

They have simplified maintenance procedures. 

They require just one type of standardized training for our crews. 

They have one of the lowest operating costs in their class. 

Our focus on profitable operations means that we periodically review our fleet composition. As a result, our fleet composition changes 

over time when we conclude that adding other types of aircraft will help us achieve this goal. Following our growth strategy, we placed an order for 71 
Boeing 737 MAX aircraft, six of which were delivered between 2018 and 2019. The 737 MAX will provide additional benefits to the current fleet such 
as fuel efficiency, longer range and additional capacity compared to the current Copa seat configuration. Following the Ethiopian Airlines accident 
involving a Boeing 737 MAX 8 aircraft, we suspended operations of our six Boeing 737 MAX 9 aircraft as regulatory authorities around the world 
grounded the aircraft. 

Through several special purpose vehicles, we currently have beneficial ownership of 73 of our aircraft, including 14 Embraer 190s. In 

addition, we lease two of our Boeing 737-700s and 27 of our Boeing 737-800s under long-term operating lease agreements that have an average 
remaining term of 2.9 years. Leasing some of our aircraft provides us with flexibility to change our fleet composition if we consider it to be in our best 
interests to do so. We make monthly rental payments, some of which are based on floating rates, but we are not required to make termination payments 
at the end of the lease. Currently, we do not have purchase options under any of our operating lease agreements. Under our operating lease agreements, 
we are required to make supplemental rent payments at the end of the lease that are calculated with reference to the aircraft’s maintenance schedule. In 
either case, we must return the aircraft in the agreed-upon condition at the end of the lease term. Title to the aircraft remains with the lessor. We are 
responsible for the maintenance, servicing, insurance, repair and overhaul of the aircraft during the term of the lease. 

To better serve the growing number of business travelers, we offer a business class (Clase Ejecutiva) configuration in our fleet. Our business class 
service features upgraded meal service, special check-in desks, bonus mileage for full-fare business class passengers and access to VIP lounges. In each 
of our Boeing 737-700 aircraft, we offer 12 business class seats with 38-inch pitch. Our Boeing 737-800 aircraft currently have two different 
configurations, one with 16 business class seats with 38-inch pitch; and a second, with 49-inch pitch seats, which is currently being used in 36 of our 
737-800s. In order to accommodate these seats, a row from economy class was removed, decreasing the total number of seats in those aircraft from 160 
to 154. On our Embraer 190s, we offer a configuration with 10 business class seats in a three abreast configuration with 38-inch pitch. The Boeing 737 
MAX 9 aircraft feature 16 full lie-flat seats in business class (Dreams) and a total of 166 seats. 

Also, within the Copa Holdings fleet, there are four 737-800s dedicated to the operations of Wingo. These aircraft are equipped with 186 

economy class seats. 

Each of our Boeing 737-Next Generation aircraft is powered by two CFM International Model CFM 56-7B engines. Each of our Embraer 

190 aircraft is powered by two CF34-10 engines made by General Electric. Our Boeing 737 MAX 9 aircraft are powered by two CFM International 
Leap 1B engines. We currently have 14 spare engines for service replacements and for periodic rotation through our fleet. 

32 

Maintenance 

The maintenance performed on our aircraft can be divided into two general categories: line and heavy maintenance. Line maintenance 

consists of routine, scheduled maintenance checks on our aircraft, including pre-flight, service visits, “A-checks” and any diagnostics and routine 
repairs. Copa’s line maintenance is performed by Copa’s own technicians at our main base in Panama and/or at the out stations by Copa Airlines and/or 
Copa Colombia employees or third-party contractors. Heavy maintenance consists of more complex inspections and overhauls, including “C-checks,” 
and servicing of the aircraft that cannot be accomplished during an overnight visit. Maintenance checks are performed intermittently as determined by 
the aircraft manufacturer through Copa Airlines AAC approved maintenance program. These checks are based on the number of hours, departures or 
calendar months flown. Historically we had contracted with certified outside maintenance providers, such as COOPESA. In October of 2010, Copa 
decided to begin performing a portion of the heavy maintenance work in-house. The hiring, training, facility and tooling setup, as well as enhancing 
certain support shops, were completed during a ten-month period. Ultimately, Copa acquired the required certifications by the local authorities to 
perform the first in-house C-Check in August 2011, followed by its second C-check in October of the same year. Today we are performing a continuous 
line of C-Checks in-house for the entire year, and on January 20, 2017 we held the ground-breaking of our new maintenance facility at Tocumen 
International Airport which allows us to perform up to three complete continuous lines of C-checks, as required. The new facility commenced 
operations in January 2019. In 2019, 33 heavy maintenance checks were successfully performed in-house. When possible, Copa attempts to schedule 
heavy maintenance during its lower-demand seasons in order to maximize productive use of its aircraft. 

Copa has exclusive long-term contracts with GE Engines whereby they perform maintenance on all of our CFM-56 and CF-34 engines. 

In October of 2014, Copa Airlines established its own maintenance technician training academy. Through this program, we recruit and 
train technicians through on-the-job training and formal classes. These future technicians stay in the program for four years total. After the first two 
years, each trainee receives their airframe license and becomes a mechanic. After the next two years, each trainee receives their power plant license and 
is released as a mechanic into our work force. Presently, we have 106 students in the program. 

Copa Airlines and Copa Colombia employ, system-wide, around 740 maintenance professionals, who perform maintenance in accordance 
with maintenance programs that are established by the manufacturers and approved and certified by international aviation authorities. Every mechanic is 
trained in factory procedures and goes through our own rigorous in-house training program. Every mechanic is licensed by the AAC and approximately 
34 of our mechanics are also licensed by the FAA. Our safety and maintenance procedures are reviewed and periodically audited by the AAC (Panama), 
UAEAC (Colombia), the FAA (United States), IATA (IOSA) and, to a lesser extent, every foreign country to which we fly. Copa Airlines’ maintenance 
facility at Tocumen International Airport has been certified by the FAA as an approved repair station, and once a year the FAA inspects this facility to 
validate and renew the certification. Copa’s aircraft are initially covered by warranties that have a term of four years, resulting in lower maintenance 
expenses during the period of coverage. All of Copa Airlines’ and Copa Colombia’s mechanics are trained to perform line maintenance on each of the 
Boeing 737-Next Generation, Boeing 737 MAX and Embraer 190 aircraft. 

All of Copa Colombia’s maintenance and safety procedures are certified by the Aeronáutica Civil of Colombia and BVQi, the institute that 

issues International Organization for Standardization, or “ISO”, quality certificates. All of Copa Colombia’s maintenance personnel are licensed by the 
Aeronáutica Civil of Colombia. In December 2017, Copa Colombia received its IATA Operational Safety Audit, or “IOSA”, compliance certification, 
which will remain valid until December 2021. 

Safety 

We place a high priority on providing safe and reliable air service. We are focused on continuously improving our safety performance by 

implementing internationally recognized best practices such as Safety Management System, or “SMS”, Flight Data Analysis (FDA), internal and 
external operational safety audits, and associated programs. 

Our SMS provides operational leaders with reactive, proactive, and predictive data analyses that are delivered on a frequent and recurring 

basis. This program also uses a three-tiered meeting structure to ensure the safety risk of all identified hazards are assessed and corrective actions (if 
required) are implemented. At the lowest meeting level, the Operational Leaders review the risk assessments, assign actions, and monitor progress. At 
the middle meeting level, the Chief Operations Officer meets with the Operational Leaders to ensure all cross-divisional issues are properly addressed 
and funded. At the highest meeting level, the Chief Executive Officer monitors the performance of the SMS program and ensures the safety risk is being 
properly managed. 

33 

The SMS is supported by safety investigations and a comprehensive audit program. Investigations are initiated either by operational events 

or analyses of relevant trend information, such as via our Flight Data Analysis program. These investigations are conducted by properly qualified and 
trained internal safety professionals. Our audit program consists of three major components. The first serves as the aircraft maintenance quality 
assurance program and is supported by six dedicated maintenance professionals. The second team consists of an internal team dedicated to conducting 
standardized audits of airport, flight operations, and associated functions. The third component of our audit program is a biennial audit of all operational 
components by the internationally recognized standard IOSA (IATA Operational Safety Audit). We are happy to report that in 2019 Copa Airlines and 
Copa Colombia successfully completed IOSA audits by external providers. 

Airport Facilities 

We believe that our hub at Panama City’s Tocumen International Airport (PTY) is an excellent base of operations for the following 

reasons: 

•

•

•

Panama’s consistently temperate climate is ideal for airport operations. 

Tocumen is the only airport in Central America with two operational runways. Also, unlike some other regional airports, 
consistent modernization and growth of our hub has kept pace with our needs. In 2012, Tocumen Airport completed Phase 
II of an expansion project of the existing terminal. In 2013, Tocumen awarded the bid for the construction of a new south 
terminal, with an additional 20 gates and eight remote positions. Currently, this second terminal is partially operating and is 
expected to operate at full capacity in 2020. 

Panama’s central and sea level location provides a very efficient base to operate our narrow body fleet, efficiently serving 
short and long-haul destinations in Central, North and South America, as well as the Caribbean. 

Tocumen International Airport is operated by an independent corporate entity established by the government, where stakeholders have a 

say in the operation and development of the airport. The law that created this entity also provided for a significant portion of revenues generated at 
Tocumen to be used for airport expansion and improvements. None of the airlines operating at Tocumen have any formal, written agreements with the 
airport management to govern access fees, landing rights or allocation of terminal gates. We rely upon our good working relationship with the airport’s 
management and the Panamanian government to ensure that we have access to the airport resources we need at prices that are reasonable. 

We provide most of our own ground services and handling of passengers and cargo at Tocumen International Airport. In addition, we 

provide services to several of the main foreign airlines that operate at Tocumen. In most of the other airports where we operate, airport support services 
are provided by external third parties. 

We use a variety of facilities at Tocumen, including our maintenance hangars and our operations facilities in the airport terminal. In 

January 2019, we opened a new hangar next to our existing maintenance facility. This new hangar has an area of approximately 90,000 square feet and 
can accommodate up to three narrow body aircraft simultaneously. 

Our Gold and higher PreferMember passengers have access to a Copa Club at the Tocumen International Airport in Panama. We also 

expect to inaugurate in 2020 a brand new Copa Club at the new Terminal 2 of Tocumen International Airport. This new lounge will have a capacity of 
approximately 420 passengers with an area of more than 20,000 square feet. 

These passengers also have access to five other Copa Clubs in the region, which are strategically located in San José, Guatemala City, 

Santo Domingo, Medellin and Bogota. 

Fuel 

Fuel costs are extremely volatile, as they are subject to many global economic, geopolitical, weather, environmental and other factors that 

we can neither control nor accurately predict. Due to its inherent volatility, aircraft fuel has historically been our most unpredictable unit cost. In the 
past, rapid increases in prices have come from increased demand for oil coupled with limited refinery capacity and instability in oil-exporting countries. 

34 

Aircraft Fuel Data
Average price per gallon of jet fuel into plane (excluding hedge) (in U.S. dollars)
Gallons consumed (in millions)
Available seat miles (in millions)
Gallons per ASM (in hundredths)

$

2019

2.16
321.4
25,113
1.28

$

2018

2.32
328.1
25,817
1.27

$

2017

1.85
307.0
23,936
1.28

In 2019, the average price of West Texas Intermediate or “WTI” crude oil, a benchmark widely used for crude oil prices that is measured 

in barrels and quoted in U.S. dollars, decreased by 19.9% from $64.9 per barrel to $52.0 per barrel. In 2019, we did not hedge any of our fuel needs, and 
we have not hedged any part of our fuel needs for 2020. Although we have not added hedge positions since August of 2015, we continue to evaluate 
various hedging strategies and may enter into additional hedging agreements in the future, as any substantial and prolonged increase in the price of jet 
fuel will likely materially and negatively affect our business, financial condition and results of operation. In the past, we have managed to offset some of 
the increases in fuel prices with higher load factors, fuel surcharges and fare increases. In addition, our relatively young, winglet-equipped fleet also 
helps us mitigate the impact of higher fuel prices. 

Tocumen International Airport has limited fuel storage capacity. In the event there is a disruption in the transport of fuel to the airport, we 

may be forced to suspend flights until the fuel tanks can be refueled. However, during 2019, new fuel storage capacity, consisting of three 1 million-
gallon tanks, were added to existing storage capacity. This addition resulted in an increase of airport fuel storage capacity from 1.5 million to 4.5 million 
gallons, which represents approximately seven days of fuel availability at current consumption levels. 

Insurance 

We maintain passenger liability insurance in an amount consistent with industry practice, and we insure our aircraft against losses and 
damages on an “all risks” basis. We have obtained all insurance coverage required by the terms of our leases. We believe our insurance coverage is 
consistent with airline industry standards and appropriate to protect us from material losses in light of the activities we conduct. No assurance can be 
given, however, that the amount of insurance we carry will be sufficient to protect us from material losses. By leveraging the purchasing power of our 
alliance partner, UAL, we have been able to negotiate lower premiums than those we would get if we were to purchase a standalone Hull and Airline 
Liability Insurance policy. 

Environmental 

Our operations are covered by various local, national, and international environmental regulations. These regulations cover, among other 

things, gas emissions into the atmosphere, disposal of solid waste and aqueous effluents, aircraft noise, and other activities that result from the operation 
of aircraft and our aircraft comply with all environmental standards applicable to their operations as described in this annual report. Currently, we 
maintain an Environmental Management and Adequacy Program (“PAMA”), in all our facilities located in Panama, including our maintenance hangar 
and support facilities at the Tocumen International Airport, Administrative Offices in Costa del Este and Training Center in Clayton. This program was 
approved by the Panamanian National Environmental Authority (“MiAmbiente”), in 2013, and includes actions such as a recycling program, better use 
of natural resources and final disposition of the unfiltered water used for aircraft maintenance, among many others. Currently, the Copa Tocumen 
Airport’s PAMA final report is presented to MiAmbiente on an annual basis to monitor and report our environmental follow-up assessments. Copa 
Airlines is an active signatory company of the Global Compact of the United Nations with its local chapter of the Global Compact Network Panama, 
and have, thus, published our Communication on Progress (“COP”) since October 2001. This Global Compact agreement requires us to implement 
measures like maintaining a young fleet, incorporating new navigation technologies such as RNAV to reduce fuel consumption, installing latest 
generation winglets and scimitars in our planes to reduce fuel consumption and recycling, among many others. 

Starting in 2019, Copa is reporting the fuel consumption burned during its annual flight operations and its gas emissions to the 

Panamanian Civil Aviation Authority. As a result, Copa is in line with the global aviation effort led by ICAO to implement the Carbon Offsetting and 
Reduction Scheme for International Aviation. 

From January to December 2019 we collected a total of 307.71 tons of recycling materials in Panama’s Copa facilities, and strengthen the 

recycling culture of our employees and contractors. Because of our recycling program, we obtained a significant reduction of the waste sent to the 
landfill. During the same period, we recycled vehicle oil and aircraft fuel, for which we outsourced the collection 

35 

of 11,542 gallons of hydrocarbons for use as alternative fuel for other industries, thus avoiding the contamination of natural resources. We also 
outsourced the collection of 378,375 gallons of oil and/or water from aircraft cleaning and painting operations, and also from vehicle maintenance 
process. The subsequent treatment of the collected water made it possible to recover 302,700 gallons of water which were then returned to nature. We 
have properly disposed of a total of 41,709 kilograms of chemical waste from Aircraft Maintenance operations. In comparison to 2018, in 2019 our 
environmental management reduced the generation of chemical waste and optimized the use of water during our operations. 

Regulation 

Panama 

Authorizations and Certificates. Panamanian law requires airlines providing commercial services in Panama to hold an Operation 

Certificate and an Air Transportation License/Certificate issued by the AAC. The Air Transportation Certificate specifies the routes, equipment used, 
capacity, and frequency of flights. This certificate must be updated every time Copa acquires new aircraft, or when routes and frequencies to a particular 
destination are modified. 

Panamanian law also requires that the aircraft operated by Copa Airlines be registered with the Panamanian National Aviation Registrar 

kept by the AAC, and that the AAC certifies the airworthiness of each aircraft in the fleet. 

The Panamanian government does not have an equity interest in our Company. Bilateral agreements signed by the Panamanian government have 

protected our operational position and route network, allowing us to have a significant hub in Panama to transport traffic within and between the 
Americas and the Caribbean. All international fares are filed and, depending on the bilateral agreement, are technically subject to the approval of the 
Panamanian government. Historically, we have been able to modify ticket prices on a daily basis to respond to market conditions. Copa Airlines’ status 
as a private carrier means that it is not required under Panamanian law to serve any particular route and is free to withdraw service from any of the 
routes it currently serves, subject to bilateral agreements. We are also free to determine the frequency of service we offer across our route network 
without any minimum frequencies imposed by the Panamanian authorities. 

Ownership Requirements. The most significant restriction on our Company imposed by the Panamanian Aviation Act, as amended and interpreted 

to date, is that Panamanian nationals must exercise “effective control” over the operations of the airline and must maintain “substantial ownership”. 
These phrases are not defined in the Aviation Act itself and it is unclear how a Panamanian court would interpret them. The share ownership 
requirements and transfer restrictions contained in our Articles of Incorporation, as well as the structure of our capital stock described under the caption 
“Description of Capital Stock”, are designed to ensure compliance with these ownership and control restrictions created by the Aviation Act. While we 
believe that our ownership structure complies with the ownership and control restrictions of the Aviation Act as interpreted by a decree by the Executive 
Branch, we cannot assure you that a Panamanian court would share our interpretation of the Aviation Act or the decree or that any such interpretations 
would remain valid for the entire time you hold our Class A shares. 

Although the Panamanian government does not currently have the authority to dictate the terms of our service, the government is responsible for 

negotiating the bilateral agreements with other nations that allow us to fly to other countries. Several of these agreements require Copa to remain 
“effectively controlled” and “substantially owned” by Panamanian nationals in order for us to use the rights conferred by the agreements. Such 
requirements are analogous to the Panamanian Aviation Act described above that requires Panamanian control of our business. 

Antitrust Regulations. In 1996, the Republic of Panama enacted antitrust legislation, which regulates industry concentration and vertical 
anticompetitive practices and prohibits horizontal collusion. The Consumer Protection and Free Trade Authority is in charge of enforcement and may 
impose fines only after a competent court renders an adverse judgment. The law also provides for direct action by any affected market participant or 
consumer, independently or through class actions. The law does not provide for the granting of antitrust immunity, as is the case in the United States. In 
February 2006, the antitrust legislation was amended to increase the maximum fines that may be assessed to $1,000,000 for violations and $250,000 for 
minor infractions of antitrust law. In October 2007, the antitrust legislation was amended again to include new regulations. 

Colombia 

Even though the Colombian aviation market continues to be regulated by the Colombian Civil Aviation Administration, Unidad Especial 

Administrativa de Aeronáutica Civil, or “Aeronáutica Civil”, the government policies have become more liberal in recent years. 

36 

Colombia has expanded its open-skies agreements with several countries in the last years. In addition to Aruba and the Andean Pact 

nations of Bolivia, Ecuador and Peru, open-skies agreements have been negotiated with Costa Rica, El Salvador, Panama and Dominican Republic. In 
the framework of liberalization between Colombia and Panama, any airline has the right to operate unlimited frequencies between any city pair of the 
two countries. As a result, Copa offers scheduled services between eight main cities in Colombia and Panama. In November 2010, Colombia signed an 
open-skies agreement with the United States, which took effect in January 2013. With respect to domestic aviation, airlines must present feasibility 
studies to secure specific route rights, and no airline may serve the city pairs with the most traffic unless that airline has at least five aircraft with valid 
airworthiness certificates. While Aeronáutica Civil has historically regulated the competition on domestic routes, in December 2012 it revoked a 
restriction requiring a maximum number of competing airlines on each domestic route. 

In October 2011, Aeronáutica Civil announced its decision to liberalize air fares in Colombia starting April 1, 2012, including the 

elimination of fuel surcharges. However, airlines are required to charge an administrative fee (tarifa administrativa) for each ticket sold on domestic 
routes within Colombia through an airline’s direct channels. Passengers in Colombia are also entitled by law to compensation in the event of delays in 
excess of four hours, over-bookings and cancellations. Currently, the San Andrés, Bogotá, Pereira, Cali, Cartagena, Medellin, Bucaramanga, Cucuta, 
and Santa Marta airports, among others, are under private management arrangements. The government’s decision to privatize airport administration in 
order to finance the necessary expansion projects and increase the efficiency of operations has increased airports fees and facility rentals at those 
airports. 

Authorization and Certificates. Colombian law requires airlines providing commercial services in Colombia to hold an operation 

certificate issued by the Aeronáutica Civil, which is renewed every five years. Copa Colombia’s operation certificate was renewed in 2017. 

Safety Assessment. On December 9, 2010, Colombia was re-certified as a Category 1 country under the FAA’s IASA program. 

Ownership Requirements. Colombian regulations establish that an airline satisfies the ownership requirements of Colombia if it is 

registered under the Colombian Laws and Regulations. 

Antitrust Regulations. In 2009, an antitrust law was issued by the Republic of Colombia; however, commercial aviation activities remain 

under the authority of the Aeronáutica Civil. 

Airport Facilities. The airports of the major cities in Colombia have been granted to concessionaries, who impose charges on the airlines 

for the rendering of airport services. The ability to contest these charges is limited, but contractual negotiations with the concessionaries are possible. 

United States 

Operations to the United States by non-U.S. airlines, such as Copa Airlines, are subject to Title 49 of the U.S. Code, under which the 

DOT, the FAA and the TSA exercise regulatory authority. The U.S. Department of Justice also has jurisdiction over airline competition matters under 
federal antitrust laws. 

Authorizations and Licenses. The DOT has jurisdiction over international aviation with respect to air transportation to and from the United 

States, including regulation of related route authorities, the granting of which are subject to review by the President of the United States. The DOT 
exercises its jurisdiction with respect to unfair practices and methods of competition by airlines and related consumer protection matters as to all airlines 
operating to and from the United States. Copa Airlines is authorized by the DOT to engage in scheduled and charter air transportation services, 
including the transportation of persons, property (cargo) and mail, or combinations thereof, between points in Panama and points in the United States 
and beyond (via intermediate points in other countries). Copa Airlines holds the necessary authorizations from the DOT in the form of a foreign air 
carrier permit, an exemption authority and statements of authorization to conduct our current operations to and from the United States. The exemption 
authority was granted by the DOT in February 1998 and was due to expire in February 2000. However, the authority remains in effect by operation of 
law under the terms of the Administrative Procedure Act pending final DOT action on the application we filed to renew the authority on January 3, 
2000. There can be no assurance that the DOT will grant the application. Our foreign air carrier permit has no expiration date. 

Copa Airlines’ operations in the United States are also subject to regulation by the FAA with respect to aviation safety matters, including 
aircraft maintenance and operations, equipment, aircraft noise, ground facilities, dispatch, communications, personnel, training, weather observation, air 
traffic control and other matters affecting air safety. The FAA requires each foreign air carrier serving the United States to obtain operational 
specifications pursuant to 14 CFR Part 129 of its regulations and to meet operational criteria associated with 

37 

operating specified equipment on approved international routes. We believe that we are in compliance in all material respects with all requirements 
necessary to maintain in good standing our operations specifications issued by the FAA. The FAA can amend, suspend, revoke or terminate those 
specifications, or can temporarily suspend or permanently revoke our authority if we fail to comply with the regulations, and can assess civil penalties 
for such failure. A modification, suspension or revocation of any of our DOT authorizations or FAA operating specifications could have a material 
adverse effect on our business. The FAA also conducts safety audits and has the power to impose fines and other sanctions for violations of airline 
safety regulations. We have not incurred any material fines related to operations. The FAA also conducts safety International Aviation Safety 
Assessment, or “IASA”, as to Panama’s compliance with ICAO safety standards. Panama is currently considered a Category 1 country that complies 
with ICAO international safety standards. As a Category 1 country, no limitations are placed upon our operating rights to the Unites States. If the FAA 
should determine that Panama does not meet the ICAO safety standards, the FAA and DOT would restrict our rights to expand operations to the United 
States. 

Security. On November 19, 2001, the U.S. Congress passed, and the President signed into law, the Aviation and Transportation Security 

Act or the “Aviation Security Act”. This law federalized substantially all aspects of civil aviation security and created the TSA, an agency of the 
Department of Homeland Security, to which the security responsibilities previously held by the FAA were transitioned. The Aviation Security Act 
requires, among other things, the implementation of certain security measures by airlines and airports, such as the requirement that all passengers, their 
bags and all cargo be screened for explosives and other security-related contraband. Funding for airline and airport security required under the Aviation 
Security Act is provided in part by a $2.50 per segment passenger security fees for flights departing from the United States, subject to a $10 per 
roundtrip cap; however, airlines are responsible for costs incurred to meet security requirements beyond those provided by the TSA. The United States 
government is considering increases to this fee as the TSA’s costs exceed the revenue it receives from these fees. Implementation of the requirements of 
the Aviation Security Act has resulted in increased costs for airlines and their passengers. Since the events of September 11, 2001, the U.S. Congress has 
mandated and the TSA has implemented numerous security procedures and requirements that have imposed and will continue to impose burdens on 
airlines, passengers and shippers. 

Passenger Facility Charges. Most major U.S. airports impose passenger facility charges. The ability of airlines to contest increases in 

these charges is restricted by federal legislation, DOT regulations and judicial decisions. With certain exceptions, air carriers pass these charges on to 
passengers. However, our ability to pass through passenger facility charges to our customers is subject to various factors, including market conditions 
and competitive factors. Passenger facility charges are capped at $4.50 per flight segment with a maximum of two PFCs charged on a one-way trip or 
four PFCs on a round trip, for a maximum of $18 total, respectively. 

Airport Access. Two U.S. airports at which we operate, O’Hare International Airport in Chicago (O’Hare) and John F. Kennedy 

International Airport in New York, or “JFK”, were formerly designated by the FAA as “high density” traffic airports subject to arrival and departure slot 
restrictions during certain periods of the day. From time to time, the FAA has also issued temporary orders imposing slot restrictions at certain airports. 
Although slot restrictions at JFK were formally eliminated as of January 1, 2007, on January 15, 2008, the FAA issued an order limiting the number of 
scheduled flight operations at JFK during peak hours to address the over-scheduling, congestion and delays at JFK. The FAA is currently contemplating 
the implementation of a long-term congestion management rule at LaGuardia Airport, JFK and Newark Liberty International Airport, which would 
replace the order currently in effect at JFK. We cannot predict the outcome of this potential rule change on our costs or ability to operate at JFK. 

On July 8, 2008, the DOT also issued a revised Airport Rates and Charges policy that allows airports to establish non-weight based fees 

during peak hours and to apportion certain expenses from “reliever” airports to the charges for larger airports in an effort to limit congestion. 

Noise Restrictions. Under the Airport Noise and Capacity Act of 1990 and related FAA regulations, aircraft that fly to the United States 
must comply with certain Stage 3 noise restrictions, which are currently the most stringent FAA operating noise requirements. All of our Copa aircraft 
meet the Stage 3 requirement. 

Other Regulation. U.S. laws and regulations have been proposed from time to time that could significantly increase the cost of airline 
operations by imposing additional requirements or restrictions on airlines. There can be no assurance that laws and regulations currently enacted or 
enacted in the future will not adversely affect our ability to maintain our current level of operating results. 

Other Jurisdictions 

We are also subject to regulation by the aviation regulatory bodies that set standards and enforce national aviation legislation in each of the 

jurisdictions to which we fly. These regulators may have the power to set fares, enforce environmental and safety standards, levy fines, restrict 
operations within their respective jurisdictions or any other powers associated with aviation regulation. We cannot predict how these various regulatory 
bodies will perform in the future, and the evolving standards enforced by any of them could have a material adverse effect on our operations. 

38 

C. Organizational Structure 

The following is an organizational chart showing Copa Holdings and its principal subsidiaries. 

*

Includes ownership by us held through wholly-owned holding companies organized in the British Virgin Islands. 

Copa Airlines is our principal airline operating subsidiary that operates out of our hub in Panama and provides passenger service in North, 

South and Central America and the Caribbean. Copa Airlines Colombia is our operating subsidiary that provides air travel from Colombia to Copa 
Airlines Hub of the Americas in Panama, and operates a low-cost business model within Colombia and various cities in the region. Oval Financial 
Leasing, Ltd. controls the special purpose vehicles that have a beneficial interest in the majority of our fleet. 

D. Property, plants and equipment 

Headquarters 

Our headquarters are located six miles away from Tocumen International Airport. We have leased six floors consisting of approximately 

121,686 square feet of the building from Desarollo Inmobiliario Del Este, S.A., an entity controlled by the same group of investors that controls CIASA, 
under a ten-year lease that began in January 2015 at a rate of $0.2 million per month. 

Other Property 

At Tocumen International Airport, we lease two maintenance hangars, operations offices in the terminal, counter space, parking spaces 
and other operational properties from the entity that manages the airport. We pay approximately $241,402 per month for this leased property. Around 
Panama City, we also lease various office spaces, parking spaces and other properties from a variety of lessors, for which we pay approximately 
$198,905 per month in the aggregate. 

In each of our destination cities, we also lease space at the airport for check-in, reservations and airport ticket office sales, and we lease 

space for CTOs in those cities. 

39 

Copa Colombia leases most of its airport offices and CTOs. Owned properties only include one CTO and a warehouse close to the Bogota 

airport. 

See also our discussion of “Aircraft” and “Airport Facilities” above. 

Item 4A. Unresolved Staff Comments 

None. 

40 

Item 5. Operating and Financial Review and Prospects 

A. Operating Results 

You should read the following discussion in conjunction with our consolidated financial statements and the related notes and the other 

financial information included elsewhere in this annual report. Discussions of year-over-year comparisons between 2018 and 2017 that are not 
included in this Form 20-F can be found in Part I, Item 5, Operating and Financial Review and Prospects” of our Form 20-F for the fiscal year ended 
December 31, 2018. 

We are a leading Latin American provider of airline passenger and cargo service through our two principal operating subsidiaries, Copa 

Airlines and Copa Colombia. Copa Airlines operates from its strategically located position in the Republic of Panama, and Copa Colombia provides air 
travel from Colombia to Copa Airlines Hub of the Americas in Panama and operates a low-cost business model within Colombia and various cities in 
the region. 

Copa currently offers approximately 361 daily scheduled flights among 80 destinations in 33 countries in North, Central, South America 
and the Caribbean from its Panama City hub. Copa provides passengers with access to flights to more than 200 other destinations through code-share 
arrangements with our Star Alliance partners and other carriers including Air France, KLM, Iberia, Emirates, Gol, Azul, Tame, Cubana and 
Aeromexico. Through its Panama City hub, Copa Airlines is able to consolidate passenger traffic from multiple points to serve each destination 
effectively. 

As of December 31, 2019, Copa Airlines and Copa Colombia operate a modern fleet of 88 Boeing 737 aircraft and 14 Embraer 190 

aircraft. To meet growing capacity requirements, we have firm orders, including purchase and lease commitments. The Company had one purchase 
contract with Boeing which entails 65 firm orders of Boeing 737 MAX aircraft, agreed to be delivered between 2020 and 2025. However, the Boeing 
737 MAX fleet is still grounded, and we have suspended operations of our six Boeing 737 MAX 9. 

Factors Affecting Our Results of Operations 

Fuel 

In 2019, the average price of WTI crude oil, a benchmark widely used for crude oil prices that is measured in barrels and quoted in U.S. 
dollars, decreased by 19.9% from $64.9 per barrel to $52.0 per barrel. In 2019, we did not hedge any of our fuel needs. For 2020 although we have not 
hedged any part of our anticipated fuel needs, we continue to evaluate various hedging strategies and may enter into additional hedging agreements in 
the future, as any substantial and prolonged increase in the price of jet fuel will likely materially and negatively affect our business, financial condition 
and results of operation. In the past, we have managed to offset some of the increases in fuel prices with higher load factors, fuel surcharges and fare 
increases. In addition, our relatively young, winglet-equipped fleet also helps us mitigate the impact of higher fuel prices. 

Regional Economic Environment 

Our historical financial results have been, and we expect them to continue to be, materially affected by the general level of economic 

activity and growth of per capita disposable income in North, South and Central America and the Caribbean, which have a material impact on 
discretionary and leisure travel (drivers of our passenger revenue) and the volume of trade between countries in the region (the principal driver of our 
cargo revenue). As an example, passenger revenue totaled $2.6 billion in 2019, a 1.1% increase over passenger revenue of $2.6 billion in 2018 mainly 
driven by a 1.7% increase in passenger traffic compared to 2018. However, passenger average fare decreased 0.7% in 2019. 

In Colombia, real GDP growth, at constant prices, was approximately 3.4% in 2019, which represented a faster growth rate than in 2018. 

Average inflation of consumer prices in Colombia rose approximately 3.6% in 2019, according to the IMF. 

In previous years our yields in Venezuela were negatively impacted by exchange controls, along with high inflation and political 

uncertainty, which led us to restrict ticket sales for passengers paying in Venezuelan bolivars. Today, sales in Venezuela are very limited (0.1% of our 
total sales) and operational feasibility of Venezuela flights is closely monitored in order to deliver optimal profitability and avoid accumulations of 
Venezuelan bolivars. According to data from the IMF, Venezuela’s GDP contracted by 35% in 2019. Exact data regarding inflation rates in Venezuela 
varies significantly, depending on the source. In response to continued hyperinflation, the Venezuelan government introduced the Bolivar Soberano on 
August 20, 2018, replacing the Bolivar Fuerte at a rate of 1 to 100,000. 

41 

According to data from The Preliminary Overview of the Economies of Latin America and the Caribbean, an annual United Nations 

publication prepared by the Economic Development Division, the economy of Latin America (including the Caribbean) increased by 0.1% in 2019 and 
is estimated to increase by 1.3% in 2020. In recent years, the Panamanian economy has outpaced the economic growth of the United States and of Latin 
America as a whole. Preliminary figures for 2019 indicate that the Panamanian economy grew by 4.3% (versus 3.7% in 2018). Headline inflation in 
Panama (as indicated by the consumer price index) presented no significant change in 2019 compared to 2018. Additionally, the Colombian economy 
has experienced relatively stable growth. The Colombian gross domestic product grew by 3.4% in 2019 and is estimated to grow by 3.6% in 2020, while 
headline inflation (as indicated by the consumer price index) rose by 3.6% in 2019. 

Revenues 

We derive our revenues primarily from passenger transportation, which represented 96.5% of our revenues for the year ended 

December 31, 2019. In addition, 2.3%of our total revenues are derived from cargo and 1.2% from other activities. 

We recognize passenger revenue from tickets when transportation is provided rather than when a ticket is sold. Passenger revenues reflect 

the capacity of our aircraft on the routes we fly, load factor and yield. Our capacity is measured in terms of available seat miles, or “ASMs”, which 
represents the number of seats available on our aircraft multiplied by the number of miles the seats are flown. Our usage is measured in terms of RPMs, 
which is the number of revenue passengers multiplied by the miles these passengers fly. Load factor, or the percentage of our capacity that is actually 
used by paying customers, is calculated by dividing RPMs by ASMs. Yield is the average amount that one passenger pays to fly one mile. We use a 
combination of approaches, taking into account yields, flight load factors and effects on load factors of connecting traffic, depending on the 
characteristics of the markets served, to arrive at a strategy for achieving the best possible revenue per available seat mile, balancing the average fare 
charged against the corresponding effect on our load factors. 

We recognize cargo revenue when transportation is provided. Historically our other revenue consists primarily of commissions earned on 

tickets sold for flights on other airlines, special charges, non-air frequent flyer program revenue and services provided to other airlines. 

Overall demand for our passenger and cargo services is highly dependent on the regional economic environment in which we operate, 

including the GDP of the countries we serve and the disposable income of the residents of those countries. Approximately 40% of our passengers travel 
at least in part for business reasons, and the growth of intraregional trade greatly affects that portion of our business. The remaining 60% of our 
passengers are tourists or travelers visiting friends and family. 

The following table sets forth our capacity, load factor and yields for the periods indicated. 

Capacity (in available seat miles, in millions)
Load factor
Yield (in cents)

Seasonality 

2019
25,113

2018
25,817

2017
23,936

2016
22,004

2015
21,675

84.8% 
12.26

83.4% 

83.2% 

80.4% 

75.2% 

12.02

12.27

12.15

13.40

Generally, our revenues from and the profitability of our flights peak during the northern hemisphere’s summer season in July and August 

and again during the December and January holiday season. Given our high proportion of fixed costs, this seasonality is likely to cause our results of 
operations to vary from quarter to quarter. 

42 

Operating Expenses 

The main components of our operating expenses are aircraft fuel, wages, salaries, benefits and other employees’ expenses, sales and 

distribution and airport facilities and handling charges. A common measure of per unit costs in the airline industry is cost per available seat mile, or 
“CASM”, which is generally defined as operating expenses divided by ASMs. 

Fuel. The price we pay for aircraft fuel varies significantly from country to country primarily due to local taxes. While we purchase 

aircraft fuel at most of the airports to which we fly, we attempt to negotiate fueling contracts with companies that have a multinational presence in order 
to benefit from volume purchases. During 2019, as a result of the location of its hub, Copa purchased 57% of its aircraft fuel in Panama. Copa has 22 
suppliers of aircraft fuel across its network. In some cases, we tanker fuel in order to minimize our cost, by fueling in airports where fuel prices are 
lowest. Our aircraft fuel expenses are variable and fluctuate based on global oil prices. 

Aircraft Fuel Data
Average price per gallon of jet fuel into plane (excluding hedge) (in U.S. dollars)
Gallons consumed (in millions)
Available seat miles (in millions)
Gallons per ASM (in hundredths)

$

2019

2.16
321.4
25,113
1.28

$

2018

2.32
328.1
25,817
1.27

$

2017

1.85
307.0
23,936
1.28

Wages, salaries and other employees’ expenses. Salary and benefit expenses have historically increased at the rate of inflation and by the 
growth in the number of our employees. In some cases, we have adjusted the salaries of our employees to correspond to changes in the cost of living in 
the countries where these employees work. We do not increase salaries based on seniority. 

Passenger servicing. Our passenger servicing expenses consist of catering, in-flight entertainment and liability insurance among others. 

These expenses are generally directly related to the number of passengers we carry or the number of flights we operate. 

Airport facilities and handling charges. Our airport facility and handling charges consist of take-off/landing charges, aircraft parking 

charges, baggage handling, and airport security charges. These charges are mainly driven by the number of flights we operate. 

Sales and distribution. Our sales and distribution expenses are driven mainly by passenger revenues, indirect channel penetration 
performance, agreed commission rates, and from payments to global distribution systems “GDS”, such as Amadeus and Sabre. Our commission 
expenses consist primarily of payments for ticket sales made by travel agents and commissions paid to credit card companies, depending on the country. 
During the last few years we have reduced our commission expense per available seat mile as a result of an industry-wide trend of paying lower 
commissions to travel agencies and by increasing the proportion of our sales made through direct channels. We expect this trend to continue as more of 
our customers become accustomed to purchasing through our website at www.copaair.com, mobile app, and call centers. While increasing direct sales 
may increase the commissions we pay to credit card companies, we expect that the savings from the corresponding reduction in travel agency 
commissions will more than offset this increase. In recent years, base commissions paid to travel agents have decreased significantly. At the same time, 
we have encouraged travel agencies to move from standard base commissions to incentive compensation based on sales volume and fare types. In 
addition, the GDS or reservation systems tend to raise their rates periodically, but we expect that if we are successful in encouraging our customers to 
purchase tickets through our direct sales channels, these costs will decrease as a percentage of our operating costs. A portion of our reservations and 
sales expenses is also comprised of our licensing payments for the SHARES reservation and check-in management software we use, which is not 
expected to change significantly from period to period. 

Maintenance, materials and repairs. Our maintenance, materials and repairs expenses consist of aircraft repair expenses and charges 
related to the line maintenance of our aircraft, including maintenance materials, and aircraft return costs. As the age of our fleet increases and our 
warranties expire, our maintenance expenses will increase. We conduct line and heavy maintenance internally and outsource some of the heavy 
maintenance to independent third-party contractors. In 2015, we restructured the original contract negotiated with GE Engine Services in 2003 for the 
repair and maintenance of our CFM-56 engines which power our Boeing 737-Next Generation fleet. Our engine maintenance costs are also aided by the 
sea-level elevation of our hub and the use of winglets which allow us to operate the engines on our Boeing 737-Next Generation aircraft with lower 
thrust, thus putting less strain on the engines. In 2011, we negotiated a maintenance agreement with GE Engine Services for the repair and maintenance 
of our CF-34 engines. 

43 

Depreciation, amortization and impairment. These expenses correspond primarily to the depreciation of aircraft owned by the company, 

engines, maintenance components, other related flight equipment and the depreciation of the right of use on leased assets. 

Flight operations. These expenses are related to the charges that the countries which we overfly levy on our aircraft as overflight charges. 

These fees are generally related to the number of flights we operate. 

Other operating and administrative expenses. Other expenses include cargo and courier expenses, overhead expenditures and 

miscellaneous expenses. Also includes the expense for contract services, variable lease payments, short term and low value leases. 

Taxes 

We pay taxes in the Republic of Panama and in other countries in which we operate, based on regulations in effect in each respective 

country. Our revenues come principally from foreign operations, and according to the Panamanian Fiscal Code income from these foreign operations are 
not subject to income tax in Panama. 

The Panamanian Fiscal Code for the airline industry states that tax is based on net income earned for traffic whose origin or final 

destination is the Republic of Panama. The applicable tax rate is currently 25%. Dividends from our Panamanian subsidiaries, including Copa, are 
separately subject to a 10% percent withholding tax on the portion attributable to Panamanian sourced income and a 5% withholding tax on the portion 
attributable to foreign sourced income. Additionally, a 7% value added tax is levied on tickets issued in Panama for travel commencing in Panama and 
going abroad, irrespective of where such tickets were ordered. In February 2020, the Company received two notifications from the tax authority in 
Panama related to a tax audit process that began in 2019. The notifications include adjustments to the reported dividend tax for the years 2012 to 2016 
and income tax 2016. The Company has filed an administrative appeal which is the first legal stage under Panamanian laws. The Company, along with 
its tax advisors, has concluded that it is not probable that an outflow of resources embodying economic benefits will be required to settle these notices. 
According to Panamanian laws, the statute of limitations is 3 and 15 years for income tax and dividend tax, respectively. 

We are also subject to local tax regulations in each of the other jurisdictions where we operate, the great majority of which are related to 

the taxation of our income. In some of the countries to which we fly, we do not pay any income taxes because we do not generate income under the laws 
of those countries either because they do not have income taxes or due to treaties or other arrangements those countries have with Panama. In the 
remaining countries, we pay income tax at rates ranging from 22% to 34% of our income attributable to those countries. Different countries calculate 
our income in different ways, but they are typically derived from our sales in the applicable country multiplied by our net margin or by a presumed net 
margin set by the relevant tax legislation. 

The determination of our taxable income in several countries is based on a combination of revenues sourced to each particular country and 
the allocation of expenses to that particular country. The methodology for multinational transportation company sourcing of revenue and expense is not 
always specifically prescribed in the relevant tax regulations, and therefore is subject to interpretation by both ourselves and the respective tax 
authorities. Additionally, in some countries, the applicability of certain regulations governing non-income taxes and the determination of our filing 
status are also subject to interpretation. We cannot estimate the amount, if any, of the potential tax liabilities that might result if the allocations, 
interpretations and filing positions we use in preparing our income tax returns were challenged by the tax authorities of one or more countries. If taxes 
were to increase, our financial performance and results of operations could be materially and adversely affected. Due to the competitive revenue 
environment, many increases in fees and taxes have been absorbed by the airline industry rather than being passed on to the passenger. Any such 
increases in our fees and taxes may reduce demand for air travel and thus our revenues. 

Under a reciprocal exemption confirmed by a bilateral agreement between Panama and the United States, we are exempt from the U.S. 

source transportation income tax derived from the international operation of aircraft. 

Our income tax expense totaled approximately $46.4 million in 2019, $34.5 million in 2018 and $49.3 million in 2017. 

Critical Accounting Policies and Estimates 

The preparation of our consolidated financial statements in conformity with IFRS as issued by the IASB requires our management to adopt 
accounting policies and make estimates and judgments to develop amounts reported in our consolidated financial statements and related notes. We strive 
to maintain a process to review the application of our accounting policies and to evaluate the appropriateness of the estimates required for the 
preparation of our consolidated financial statements. We believe that our estimates and judgments are reasonable; however, actual results and the timing 
of recognition of such amounts could differ from those estimates. In addition, estimates routinely require adjustments based on changing circumstances 
and the receipt of new or better information. 

44 

Our critical accounting policies and estimates are described below as those that are reflective of significant judgments and uncertainties 

and potentially result in materially different results under different assumptions and conditions. For a more extensive disclosure of these and other 
accounting policies, see notes 3 and 4 to our annual consolidated financial statements in Item 18 of this report. 

Revenue recognition 

Revenue is recognized when control of the goods or services is transferred to the customer at an amount that reflects the consideration to 

which the Company expects to be entitled in exchange for those goods or services. The consideration received or receivable is measured taking into 
account contractually defined terms of payment and excluding taxes or duties. The following specific recognition criteria must also be met before 
revenue is recognized: 

Passenger tickets. Passenger revenue from tickets is recognized when transportation is provided rather than when a ticket is sold. The 

amount of passenger ticket sales, not yet recognized as revenue, is reflected under “Air traffic liability” in the consolidated statement of financial 
position. Refundable and nonrefundable tickets expire after one year from the date of issuance. The Company performs a monthly liability evaluation 
using its historical experience with refundable and nonrefundable expired tickets and other facts, and a provision is recognized for tickets that are 
expected not to be used. A year after the sales is made, actual ticket breakage is removed from “Air Traffic liability” and recognized as revenue, and the 
provision is reversed. 

Estimating the expected expiration tickets requires management’s judgment, among other things, the historical data and experience is an 

indication of future customer behavior. 

Frequent flyer program. The Company’s frequent flyer program objective, is to reward customer loyalty. Members in this program earn 

miles for travel on Copa Airlines, Star Alliance partners’ airlines and also by purchasing the goods and services of the Company network of non-airline 
partners and co-branded credit cards. The miles or points earned can be exchanged for flights on Copa or any of other Star Alliance partners’ airlines. 

Passenger revenue includes flights redeemed under our frequent flyer program. When a passenger elects to receive Copa’s frequent flyer 

miles in connection with a flight, the Company recognizes a portion of the tickets sale as revenue when the air transportation is provided and recognizes 
a deferred liability (Frequent flyer deferred revenue) for the portion of the ticket sale representing the value of the related miles as a separate 
performance obligation. To determine the amount of revenue to be deferred, the Company estimates and allocates the fair value of the miles that were 
essentially sold along with the airfare, based on a weighted average ticket value, which incorporates the expected redemption of miles including factors 
such as redemption pattern, cabin class and geographic region. 

A statistical model that estimates the percentages of points that will not be redeemed before expiration is used to estimate breakage. The 
breakage and the fair value of the miles are reviewed at least annually, and any adjustments are reflected on a prospective basis to passenger revenues. 

The Company calculates the short and long-term portion of the frequent flyer deferred revenue, using a model that includes estimates 

based on the members’ redemption rates projected by management due to clients’ behavior.

Currently, when a member of another carrier frequent flyer program redeems miles on Copa Airlines or Copa Colombia flights, those 

carriers pay to the Company a per mile rate. The rates paid by them depend on the class of service, the flight length and the availability of the reward, 
and is included in passenger revenues. 

Ancillaries revenues. Are primarily composed of services performed in conjunction with a passenger’s flight, including administrative fees 

(such as ticket change fees), baggage fees, and other ticket-related fees. These ancillary fees are part of the travel performance obligation and, as such, 
are recognized as passenger revenue when the travel occurs. 

Cargo and mail revenue. Cargo and mail revenue are recognized when the Company provides and completes the shipping services as 

requested by the client and the risks on the merchandise and goods are transferred. 

Other operating revenue. Other operating revenue includes revenue associated with the marketing component of the frequent flyer 
program. This revenue is comprised of the marketing component of mileage sales to co-branded card, other partners and other marketing related 
payments. 

The Company sells miles to non-airline businesses with which it has marketing agreements. The main contracts to sell miles are related to 

co-branded credit card relationships with major banks in the region. The Company determined the selling prices of miles according to a method which 
allocates consideration based upon the relative selling price of the deliverables. The relative selling price of the deliverables is determined based upon 
the estimated standalone selling prices of each deliverable in the arrangement and is allocated between the miles sold to the passenger (as described 
above) and the marketing elements. Revenue allocated to the performance obligations, related to marketing components, is recorded in other operating 
revenue when miles are delivered. 

45 

The remaining amounts included within other revenue is related to lease income, advertising and vacation-related services. 

Accounting for property and equipment 

Property and equipment comprise mainly airframe, engines, and other related flight equipment. All property and equipment is stated at 

cost, net of accumulated depreciation and accumulated impairment losses, if any. 

When a major maintenance inspection or overhaul cost is embedded in the initial purchase cost of an aircraft, the Company estimates the 
carrying amount of the component. These initial built-in maintenance assets are depreciated over the estimated time period until the first maintenance 
event is performed. The cost of major maintenance events completed after the aircraft acquisition are capitalized and depreciated over the estimated time 
period until the next major maintenance event. The remaining value of the previously capitalized component if any, is charged to expense upon 
completion of the subsequent maintenance event. 

The Company recognizes the depreciation on a straight-line basis, which for some aircraft components is akin to depreciation based on 

use, over the estimated useful life of the assets. Depreciation is recognized in the consolidated statement of profit or loss from the date the property, and 
equipment is installed and ready for use. 

An item of property and equipment and any significant part initially recognized is derecognized upon disposal or when no future economic 

benefits are expected from its use or disposal. Any gain or loss arising on derecognition of the asset (calculated as the difference between the net 
disposal proceeds and the carrying amount of the asset) is included in the statement of profit or loss when the asset is derecognized. 

The costs of major maintenance events for leased aircraft are capitalized and depreciated over the shorter of the scheduled usage period to 
the next major inspection event or the remaining life of lease term (as appropriate) the remaining value of the previously capitalized maintenance or the 
right-of-use asset (“ROU”) component if any, is charged to expense upon completion of the subsequent maintenance event. 

The residual values, useful life and methods of depreciation of property and equipment are reviewed at each financial year-end and 

adjusted prospectively, if appropriate. 

Pre-delivery deposits refer to prepayments made based on the agreements entered into with the Boeing Company for the purchase of 
aircraft and include interest and other finance charges incurred during the manufacture of aircraft. Interest costs incurred on borrowings that fund 
progress payments on assets under construction, including pre-delivery deposits to acquire new aircraft, are capitalized and included as part of the cost 
of the assets through the earlier of the date of completion or aircraft delivery. 

We evaluate annually whether there is an indication that our property, plant and equipment may be impaired. Factors that would indicate 
potential impairment may include, but are not limited to technological obsolescence, significant decreases in the market value of long-lived asset(s), a 
significant change in physical condition or useful life of long-lived asset(s) and operating or cash flow losses associated with the use of long-lived asset
(s). In November 2019, the Company announced its decision to accelerate the exit of its Embraer 190 fleet and is initiated an active program to locate a 
buyer to sell the remaining 14 aircraft, spare engines, spare parts and inventory by 2020. The decision responds to the continued deterioration of the 
Embraer 190 fleet performance and the need to grow capacity in some markets aligned with the fleet optimization plan. This anticipated exit results in 
impairment losses of $89.3 million to write down the assets to the lower of its carrying amount and its fair value less cost to sell. To meet its capacity 
demands, the Company is evaluating entering into a short term leaseback of the Embraer fleet. 

Goodwill. Goodwill is initially measured at cost, being the excess of the aggregate of the consideration transferred over the net identifiable 

assets acquired and liabilities assumed of the acquired subsidiary at the date of acquisition. After initial recognition, goodwill is measured at cost less 
any accumulated impairment losses. For the purpose of impairment testing, goodwill acquired in a business combination is, from the acquisition date, 
allocated to each of the Company’s Cash Generating Unit (CGU) or group of CGU’s that are expected to benefit from the combination, irrespective of 
whether other assets or liabilities of the acquiree are assigned to those units. When the recoverable amount of the CGU is less than its carrying amount, 
an impairment loss is recognized. The Company performed an annual impairment test. 

Lease accounting. The Company enters into contracts for the use of the aircraft it operates and real estate which include, airport and 

terminal facilities, sales offices, maintenance facilities, and general offices. The Company assesses, based on the terms and conditions of the 
arrangements, whether the contract is, or contains, a lease. A contract is, or contains, a lease if the contract conveys the right to control the use of an 
identified asset for a period of time in exchange for consideration. 

At the commencement date, the Company recognizes a ROU and a lease liability. 

46 

The ROU is subsequently depreciated using the straight line method from the commencement date to the earlier of the end of the useful 

life of the ROU or component, or lease term. The estimated useful life of ROU is determined of the same basis of those property and equipment. 

The lease liability, is initially measured at the present value of the lease payments that are not paid at that date, discounted using the 

interest rate implicit in the lease, if that rate can be readily determined or the lessee’s incremental borrowing rate. 

For leases under IFRS 16 the Company recognizes a provision to estimate the costs for work required to be performed just before the 
redelivery of the aircraft to the lessors and which does not depend of the aircraft utilization, this provision is booked as a dismantling provision cost 
under “long term liabilities” in the consolidated statement of financial position. 

The lease liability is subsequent measured at amortized cost using the effective interest method. It is remeasured when there is a change in 
future lease payments arising from a change in an index or a rate, if there a change in the Company’s estimated amount expected to be payable under a 
residual value guarantee or if the Company changes its assessment of whether it will exercise a purchase, extension or termination option. 

Lease accounting is critical for us because it requires an extensive analysis of the lease agreements in order to classify and measure the 

transactions in our financial statements and significantly impacts our financial position and results of operations. Changes in the terms of our 
outstanding lease agreements and the terms of future lease agreements may impact the accounting for the lease transactions and our future financial 
position and results of operations. 

Provision for return condition 

The Company records a provision to accrue for the cost that will be incurred in order to return the lease aircraft to their lessor in the 

agreed-upon condition, excluded estimated dismantling costs not based on utilization of the aircraft which are included in the ROU asset and long term 
liabilities. The methodology applied to calculate the provision requires management to make assumptions, including the future maintenance costs, 
discount rate, related inflation rates and aircraft utilization. The cash flows are discounted at a current pre-tax rate that reflects the risks specific to the 
decommissioning. Any difference in the actual maintenance cost incurred and the amount of the provision is recorded under “Maintenance, materials 
and repairs” in the consolidated statement of profit or loss. The effect of any changes in estimates, including those mentioned above, is also recognized 
under “Maintenance, materials and repairs” for the period. 

Deferred taxes. Deferred taxes are recognized for tax losses, tax credits, and temporary differences between tax bases and carrying 

amounts for financial reporting purposes of our assets and liabilities. Recognition and measurement of deferred taxes is a critical accounting policy for 
us because it requires a number of assumptions and is based on our best estimate of our projections related to future taxable profit. In addition, because 
the preparation of our business plan is subject to a variety of market conditions, the results of our operations may vary significantly from our projections 
and as such, the amounts recorded as deferred tax assets may be impacted significantly in the future. 

Recently Issued Accounting Pronouncements 

The standards and interpretations that are issued, but not yet effective, up to date of issuance of the Company’s financial statements are 

disclosed below. The Company intends to adopt these standards, if applicable, when they become effective. 

•

•

•

Amendments to IFRS 3 - Definition of a business

Amendments to IAS 1 and IAS 8 - Definition of material

Amendments to IFRS 9, IAS 39 and IFRS 7 – Interest rate benchmark reform

Effective from January 1, 2019, we were required to adopt the new accounting standard IFRS 16 Leases (“IFRS 16”). As a result, the 
Company has changed its accounting policy for lease contracts. IFRS 16 supersedes IAS 17 Leases, IFRIC 4 Determining whether an arrangement 
contains a lease, SIC-15 operating leases-incentives, and SIC-27 Evaluating the substance of transactions involving the legal form of a lease. The 
standard sets out the principles for the recognition, measurement, presentation and disclosure of leases and requires lessees to recognize most leases on 
the statement of financial position. 

47 

For a discussion of these improvements to IFRS, see note 6 to our annual consolidated financial statements. 

Results of Operation 

The following table shows each of the line items in our statement of profit or loss for the periods indicated as a percentage of our total operating 
revenues for that period: 

Operating revenues:
Passenger revenue
Cargo and mail revenue
Other operating revenue
Total operating revenues
Operating expenses:
Fuel
Wages, salaries, benefits and other employees expenses
Passenger servicing
Airport facilities and handling charges
Sales and distribution
Maintenance, materials and repairs
Depreciation, amortization and impairment
Flight operations
Other operating and administrative expenses
Total operating expenses
Operating income
Non-operating income (expense):
Finance cost
Finance income
Gain (loss) on foreign currency fluctuations
Net change in fair value of derivatives
Other non-operating income (expense)
Total non-operating income (expense)
Profit before income taxes
Income taxes
Net profit

2019

2018

2017

96.5% 
2.3% 
1.2% 
100.0% 

96.6% 
2.3% 
1.0% 
100.0% 

96.9% 
2.2% 
0.9% 
100.0% 

25.7% 
16.6% 
3.8% 
6.7% 
7.8% 
4.7% 
13.7% 
3.8% 
4.4% 
87.2% 
12.8% 

-2.1% 
0.9% 
-0.6% 
0.0% 
-0.2% 
-1.9% 
10.8% 
-1.7% 
9.1% 

28.6% 
16.6% 
3.9% 
7.0% 
7.8% 
4.1% 
17.4% 
4.0% 
4.6% 
94.0% 
6.0% 

-1.9% 
0.9% 
-0.4% 
0.0% 
0.0% 
-1.4% 
4.6% 
-1.3% 
3.3% 

22.7% 
16.5% 
3.9% 
6.8% 
7.9% 
5.2% 
11.0% 
4.0% 
4.5% 
82.6% 
17.4% 

-2.0% 
0.7% 
0.2% 
0.1% 
-0.1% 
-1.0% 
16.3% 
-2.0% 
14.4% 

Year 2019 Compared to Year 2018 

Our consolidated net profit in 2019 totaled $247.0 million, a 180.1% increase from net profit of $88.2 million in 2018. In addition, we had 

consolidated operating profit of $346.2 million in 2019, a 116.9% increase over operating profit of $159.6 million in 2018. Our consolidated operating 
margin in 2019 was 12.8%, an increase of 6.8 percentage points versus 2018. This results include a non-cash loss of $89.3 million in 2019 and 
$188.6 million in 2018 related to an impairment of non-financial assets due to the sale of our Embraer fleet. 

Operating revenue 

Our consolidated revenue totaled $2.7 billion in 2019, a 1.1% increase over operating revenue of $2.7 billion in 2018, mainly due to an 

increase of 1.0% in passenger revenue. This was driven by a 1.7% increase in passenger traffic partially offset by a 0.7% decrease in passenger average 
fare compared to 2018. 

48 

Passenger revenue. Passenger revenue totaled $2.6 billion in 2019, a 1.0% increase over passenger revenue of $2.6 billion in 2018. This 

was driven by a 1.7% increase in passenger traffic, partially offset by a decrease of 0.7% in passenger average fare compared to 2018. 

Cargo and mail revenue. Cargo and mail revenue totaled $62.5 million in 2019, a minor difference from cargo and mail revenue of 

$62.5 million in 2018, reflecting a decrease in capacity, that was offset by a higher average fare per kilo. 

Other operating revenue. Other operating revenue totaled $32.3 million in 2019, a 16.5% increase from other revenue of $27.8 million in 

2018 driven by an increase in frequent flyer program partnership revenues. Other operating revenue includes revenue associated with the marketing 
component of the frequent flyer program. 

Operating expenses 

Our consolidated operating expenses totaled $2.4 billion in 2019, a 6.2% decrease over operating expenses of $2.5 billion in 2018. This 

resulted mainly from a decrease in fuel and depreciation expenses. 

An overview of the major variances in operating expenses on a consolidated basis follows: 

Fuel. Aircraft fuel totaled $696.2 million in 2019, a 9.1% decrease from aircraft fuel of $765.8 million in 2018, mainly due to a 7.2% 

lower effective fuel price and a 2.9% decrease in block hours. 

Wages, salaries and other employees’ expenses. Salaries and benefits totaled $450.4 million in 2019, a 1.6% increase over salaries and 

benefits of $443.3 million in 2018, mainly driven by the full year effect of inflationary salary adjustments, offset by headcount efficiencies and currency 
effect. 

Passenger servicing. Passenger servicing totaled $102.1 million in 2019 compared to $104.3 million in 2018. This represented a 2.1% 

decrease driven by a lower effective rate per passenger. 

Airport facilities and handling charges. Airport facilities and handling charges totaled $182.0 million in 2019, a 2.4% decrease over 

$186.4 million in 2018. This decrease was driven mainly by a 0.5% decrease in departures and lower effective rates related to airport services in North 
America. 

Sales and Distribution. Sales and distribution totaled $210.6 million in 2019, a 0.2% increase compared to $210.2 million in 2018, due to 

1.0% higher passenger revenue, offset by lower commission rates. 

Maintenance, materials and repairs. Maintenance, materials and repairs totaled $127.6 million in 2019, a 15.2% increase over 

maintenance, materials and repairs of $110.7 million in 2018. This increase was primarily a result of landing gear and APU maintenance events which 
are expensed as incurred. 

Depreciation, amortization and impairment. Depreciation totaled $371.4 million in 2019, a 20.2% decrease over $465.2 million in 2018, 

mainly due to a non-recurring impairment charge related to the Embraer fleet in 2018. 

Flight operations. Flight operations amounted to $102.8 million in 2019, a 5.2% decrease compared to $108.4 million in 2018, mainly due 

to 2.9% less block hours and lower overflight rates. 

Other operating and administrative expenses. Other expenses totaled $118.1 million in 2019, a 4.6% decrease from $123.7 million in 

2018, mainly due to less overhead expenses. 

Total Non-operating Income (Expense) 

Non-operating expense totaled $52.7 million in 2019, as compared to non-operating expense of $36.8 million in 2018 mainly due to a 

translational loss in foreign exchange rates and an increase in finance cost. 

Finance cost. Finance cost totaled $57.4 million in 2019, an 13.0% increase over finance cost of $50.8 million in 2018, mainly as a result 

of a higher average debt balance with higher interest rates, and higher factoring flows. 

49 

Finance income. Finance income totaled $24.4 million in 2019, a 3.3% increase over finance income of $23.6 million in 2018 mainly due 

to higher interest rates offset by a decrease in investments in 2019. 

Other non-operating income (expense). Other non-operating expense totaled $4.3 million in 2019, compared to $0.2 million in 2018 

mainly due to Embraer sales related expenses. 

B. Liquidity and Capital Resources 

Our cash, cash equivalents, and short-term investments at December 31, 2019 increased by $128.8 million, to $851.1 million. As part of 
our financing policy, we expect to continue to finance our liquidity needs with cash from operations. We forecast our cash requirements weekly. As of 
the date hereof, our current unrestricted cash exceeds our forecasted cash requirements to carry out operations, including payment of debt service for 
fiscal year 2019. 

Our cash, cash equivalent and short-term investment position represented 31.4% of our revenues for the year ended December 31, 2019; 

19.6% of our total assets and 44.0% of our total equity as of December 31, 2019, which we believe provides us with a strong liquidity position. 

In recent years, we have been able to meet our working capital requirements through cash from our operations. Our capital expenditures, 

which consist primarily of aircraft purchases, are funded through a combination of our cash from operations and long-term financing. From time to time, 
we finance pre-delivery payments related to our aircraft with short or medium-term financing in the form of commercial bank loans and/or bonds 
privately placed with commercial banks. In our opinion, the Company’s working capital is sufficient for the Company’s present requirements. 

Copa Holdings, S.A., through its subsidiaries, has short term unsecured credit facilities with financial institutions in the aggregate amount 
of $305.0 million. These lines of credit have been put in place to finance aircraft delivery pre-delivery payments and for working capital purposes. As of 
December 31, 2019, we had no outstanding borrowings under these credit lines, while as of December 31, 2018 we had outstanding borrowings of 
$140.0 million under these credit lines. 

Operating Activities 

We rely primarily on cash flows from operations to provide working capital for current and future operations. Net cash flows provided by 

operating activities for the year ended December 31, 2019 were $784.9 million, an increase of $241.9 million over the $543.0 million in 2018. Our 
principal source of cash is receipts from ticket sales to customers, which for the year ended December 31, 2019 increased by $61.0 million over receipts 
in the year 2018. 

Investing Activities 

Net cash flow used in investing activities was $192.9 million in 2019 compared to a net cash flow used in investing activities of 

$149.6 million in 2018. During 2019, we made capital expenditures of $29.5 million, which consisted of expenditures related to the net of acquisition of 
property and equipment, reimbursements of advance payments on aircraft purchase contracts, and proceeds from sale of property equipment, compared 
to $33.7 million in 2018. In 2019, the Company used $121.4 million in acquisition and redemption from investments compared to $63.7 million in 2018. 
Also, in 2019 we had advance payments on aircraft purchase contracts of $75.4 million compared to $216.7 million in 2018, and $25.5 million in 
acquisition of intangible assets compared to $30.2 million in 2018. 

Financing Activities 

Net cash flow used in financing activities were $545.3 million in 2019 compared to net cash flows used in financing activities of 

$430.2 million in 2018. During 2019, $95.0 million of proceeds from borrowings were offset by the repayment of $426.8 million in debt, $110.4 million 
in dividends paid and $103.1 million in payment of lease liability. During 2018, $225.0 million of proceeds from financing were offset by the repayment 
of $401.3 million in debt, $147.6 million in dividends declared and $106.3 million in payment of lease liability. 

Over the years, we have financed the acquisition of 40 Boeing 737-Next Generation aircraft through syndicated loans provided by 
international financial institutions with the support of partial guarantees issued by the Export-Import Bank of the United States, or “Ex-Im”, with 
repayment profiles of 12 years. The Ex-Im guarantees support 80% of the net purchase price and are secured with a first priority mortgage on the 
aircraft in favor of a security trustee on behalf of Ex-Im. The documentation for each loan follows standard 

50 

market forms for this type of financing, including standard events of default. Our Ex-Im supported financings amortize on a quarterly basis, are 
denominated in dollars and originally bear interest at a floating rate linked to LIBOR. Our Ex-Im guarantee facilities typically offer an option to fix the 
applicable interest rate. We have exercised this option with respect to $128.1 million as of December 31, 2019 at an average weighted interest rate of 
3.02%, $98.5 million bears interest at a floating weighted average interest rate of 2.10% representing a spread of 20 bps over the 3 month LIBOR as of 
December 31, 2019. At December 31, 2019, the total amount outstanding under our Ex-Im-supported financings totaled $226.6 million. 

Since 2014, we have financed our aircraft through a mix of Japanese Operating Leases with Call Options, or “JOLCO”, and sale-

leasebacks. 

JOLCO is a Japanese-sourced lease transaction that provides for 100% financing, and is typically used to finance new aircraft and has a 

minimum lease term of 10 years. In a JOLCO, the aircraft is purchased by a Japanese equity investor. The Japanese equity investor funds approximately 
30% of the acquisition cost of the aircraft and becomes the owner of the aircraft via a Special Purpose Entity. An international bank with on-shore 
lending capabilities provides the balance of the aircraft purchase price via a senior secured mortgage loan. JOLCOs have a call option, which lessees 
often expect the lessor to exercise. Under IFRS, these transactions are accounted for as financings. We have financed 19 Boeing 737 Next Generation 
and 737 MAX aircraft since 2014 through JOLCO financing. As of December 31, 2019 JOLCO financed debt outstanding was $828.8 million. 

We complied with all required covenants in 2018 and 2019. 

Capital resources. We finance our aircraft through long-term debt and operating lease financings. Although we expect to finance future 

aircraft deliveries with a combination of similar debt arrangements and financing leases, we may not be able to secure such financing on attractive 
terms. To the extent we cannot secure financing, we may be required to modify our aircraft acquisition plans or incur higher than anticipated financing 
costs. We expect to meet our operating obligations as they become due through available cash and internally generated funds, supplemented as 
necessary by short-term or medium term credit lines. 

As of December 31, 2019, the Company had one purchase contract with Boeing which entails 65 firm orders of Boeing 737 MAX aircraft, 

agreed to be delivered between 2020 and 2025. The aircraft under this contract have an approximate value of $3.1 billion based on contractual 
obligations net of discounts and pre-delivery payments, including estimated amounts for contractual price escalation. 

We meet our pre-delivery deposit requirements for our Boeing 737 aircraft by using cash from operations, or by using short or medium-

term borrowing facilities and/or vendor financing for deposits required between three years and six months prior to delivery. 

The Company maintained letters of credit with several banks with a value of $25.8 million as of December 31, 2019 ($25.9 million as of 

December 31, 2018). These letters of credit are pledged mainly for operating lessors, maintenance providers and airport operators. 

The Company, has short term unsecured credit facilities with financial institutions in the aggregate amount of $305.0 million. These lines 

of credit have been put in place to pre-delivery payments and for working capital purposes. As of December 31, 2019, we had no outstanding 
borrowings under these credit lines (2018: $140.0 million). 

C. Research and Development, Patents and Licenses, etc. 

We believe that the Copa brand has strong value and indicates superior service and value in the Latin American travel industry. We have 
registered the trademarks “Copa”, “Copa Airlines”, “Wingo” and “Hub of the Americas” with the trademark offices in Panama, the United States, and 
the majority of the countries in which we operate. We license certain brands, logos and trade uniforms under the trademark license agreement with UAL 
related to our alliance. We will have the right to continue to use our current logos on our aircraft for up to five years after the end of the alliance 
agreement term. “Copa Colombia”, “Copa Airlines Colombia”, “Wingo” and “Hub of the Americas” are registered names and trademarks in Colombia, 
Panama, Ecuador, Venezuela, Mexico, Dominican Republic, and Guatemala. 

We operate many software products under licenses from our vendors, including our passenger services system, booking engine, revenue 

management software and our cargo management system. Under our agreements with Boeing, we also use a large amount of Boeing’s proprietary 
information to maintain our aircraft. The loss of these software systems or technical support information from our vendors could negatively affect our 
business. 

51 

D. Trend Information 

Since the second quarter of 2019, and continuing until the end of the year, we have been able to deliver continuous year over year yield 
improvement, resulting in a significant unit revenue expansion, mainly due to a more stable macro-economic environment in the region, especially in 
Brazil. 

We intend to continue developing initiatives to improve our operational efficiency and performance, including a continued focus on 

maintaining our industry leading on-time performance and completion factor. 

Wingo had a successful 2019 both operationally and financially. It achieved profitability in Colombia earlier than planned and was 

recognized as the Best Budget Carrier in Latin America according to Kayak users, for the second consecutive year. In 2020, Wingo will significantly 
increase its capacity by transitioning its fleet from four B737-700 to four B737-800 with 44 additional seats per aircraft. With this, Wingo expects to 
improve both its unit costs and profitability. Additionally, in the second half of 2020, Wingo will receive a fifth aircraft, also a B737-800, which will 
most likely be based in Panama. 

E. Off-Balance Sheet Arrangements 

We have no off-balance sheet arrangements. 

F. Tabular Disclosure of Contractual Obligations 

Our non-cancelable contractual obligations at December 31, 2019 included the following: 

At December 31,

Total

Less than 1 Year

Aircraft and engine purchase commitments (1)
Aircraft operating leases
Other operating leases (3)
Short-term debt and long-term debt (2)
Total

3,102,354
286,876
42,153
1,055,421
4,486,804

495,097
99,309
8,247
117,238
719,891

3-5 Years

More than 5 Years

1-3 Years
(in thousands of dollars)
1,194,497
146,810
14,210
225,692
1,581,209

1,153,663
40,757
10,631
246,610
1,451,661

259,097
0
9,065
465,881
734,042

(1) Based on contractual obligations net of discounts and pre-delivery payments, including estimated amounts for contractual price escalation. 
(2)
(3) Only includes contracts classified as leases according to IFRS 16. 

Includes actual interest and estimated interest for floating-rate debt based on December 31, 2019 rates. 

Most contract leases include renewal options. Non-aircraft related leases have renewable terms of one year, and their respective amounts 

included in the table above have been estimated through 2019, but we cannot estimate amounts with respect to those leases for later years. Our leases do 
not include residual value guarantees. 

G. Safe harbor 

 Not applicable. 

52 

Item 6. Directors, senior management and employees 

A. Directors and Senior Management 

Currently, our Board of Directors is comprised of eleven members. The number of directors elected each year varies. Messrs. Stanley 

Motta, Jaime Arias, Jose Castañeda and Josh Connor were re-elected as directors for two-year terms at our annual shareholders’ meeting held in 2019. 
Messrs. Pedro Heilbron, Ricardo A. Arias, Alvaro Heilbron, Carlos A. Motta, John Gebo, Roberto Artavia and Andrew Levy were each re-elected for 
two-year terms at our annual shareholders’ meeting held in 2018. Mr. Roberto Artavia tendered his resignation as director of the Company in August 
2019 and Mrs. Julianne Canavaggio was elected as director to fill the vacancy. 

The following table sets forth the name, age and position of each member of our Board of Directors as of February 29, 2020. A brief 

biographical description of each member of our Board of Directors follows the table: 

Name
Pedro Heilbron
Stanley Motta
Alvaro Heilbron
Jaime Arias
Ricardo Alberto Arias
Carlos A. Motta
John Gebo
Jose Castañeda Velez
Andrew Levy
Josh Connor
Julianne Canavaggio

Position

Chief Executive Officer and Director
Chairman and Director
Director
Director
Director
Director
Director
Director
Director
Director
Director

Age
61
74
54
85
80
47
49
75
50
46
38

Mr. Pedro Heilbron. See “—Executive Officers”. 

Mr. Stanley Motta has been one of the directors of Copa Airlines since 1986 and a director of Copa Holdings since it was established in 
1998. Since 1990, he has served as the President of Motta Internacional, S.A. an international importer and distributor of consumer goods. Mr. Motta is 
father of Mr. Carlos A. Motta. He serves on the boards of directors of Motta Internacional, S.A., BG Financial Group, S.A., ASSA Compañía de 
Seguros, S.A., Televisora Nacional, S.A., Inversiones Bahía, Ltd. and GBM Corporation. Mr. Motta is a graduate of Tulane University. 

Mr. Alvaro Heilbron was elected as director of Copa Holdings in 2012. Mr. Heilbron is the brother of Mr. Pedro Heilbron, our chief 

executive officer. Mr. Heilbron is Co-Founder and Executive Director at Editora del Caribe, S.A. He serves on the board of Grupo PTM Panama, S.A., 
Gold Mills de Panama, S.A., Calox Panameña, S.A., Inversiones Haripasa and he is a member of Babson College’s Global Advisory Board. 
Mr. Heilbron holds a BS in Business Administration from George Washington University, and a Post-Graduate degree in Management from INCAE 
Business School. Mr. Heilbron also served as Vice-President of Commercial for Copa Airlines between the years of 1988 and 1999. 

Mr. Jaime Arias has been one of the directors of Copa Airlines since 1983 and a director of Copa Holdings since it was established in 
1998. He is a founding partner of Galindo, Arias & Lopez. Mr. Arias holds a BA from Yale University, a JD from Tulane University and completed 
legal studies at the University of Paris, Sorbonne. He serves on the boards of directors of Televisora Nacional, S.A., ASSA Compañía de Seguros, S.A., 
Empresa General de Inversiones, S.A., Petroleos Delta, S.A., BAC International Bank, Inc., Direct Vision, S.A. and Promed, S.A. 

Mr. Ricardo Arias has been one of the directors of Copa Airlines since 1985 and a director of Copa Holdings since it was established in 

1998. He is a founding partner of Galindo, Arias & Lopez. Mr. Arias is the former Panamanian ambassador to the United Nations. Mr. Arias holds a BA 
in international relations from Georgetown University, an LL.B. from the University of Puerto Rico and an LL.M. from Yale Law School. He serves on 
the boards of directors of Banco General, S.A. and Empresa General de Inversiones, S.A., which is the holding company that owns Banco General, S.A. 
Mr. Arias is also listed as a principal or alternate director of several subsidiary companies of Banco General, S.A. and Empresa General de Inversiones, 
S.A. Mr. Arias is a former Director and President of the Panamanian Stock Exchange. 

53 

Mr. Carlos A. Motta was elected as a director of Copa Holdings in 2014. He has held several positions within Motta Internacional, S.A. 
and is currently a director and part of the executive committee. He is the son of Mr. Stanley Motta. Mr. Motta serves on the board of Inversiones Bahia, 
Copa Holdings, ASSA Compañía de Seguros, S.A, Banco General, Motco Inc., Fundación Alberto C. Motta, IFF Panama (Panama Film Festival), and 
Junior Achievement Worldwide among others. Mr Motta is a member of YPO (Young Presidents Organization); AGLN (The Aspen Global Leadership 
Network); CEAL (Consejo Empresarial de America Latina). Mr. Motta received a bachelor’s degree in marketing from Boston College and an MBA 
from Thunderbird (The American Graduate School of International Management). 

Mr. John Gebo was elected as a director of Copa Holdings in 2015. He is Senior Vice President of Alliances for United Airlines. Prior to 

his current position, Mr. Gebo was United’s Senior Vice President of Financial Planning and Analysis. Mr. Gebo joined United in 2000, and has held 
positions of increasing responsibility in finance, investor relations, and alliances. Prior to joining United, Mr. Gebo worked at General Motors 
Corporation in manufacturing engineering. Mr. Gebo received his bachelor’s degree in mechanical engineering from the University of Texas and his 
master’s degree in business administration from the University of Michigan. Mr. Gebo is also a current member of the board of directors of Azul S.A. 
and served for eight years on the board of directors of Alliant Credit Union, one of the largest credit unions in the United States, last serving as Vice 
Chairman in 2018. 

Mr. Jose Castañeda Velez is one of the independent directors of Copa Holdings. He is currently a director on the boards of 

MMG Bank Corporation and MMG Trust S.A. Previously, Mr. Castañeda Velez was the chief executive officer of Banco Latinoamericano de 
Exportaciones, S.A.—BLADEX and has held managerial and officer level positions at Banco Río de la Plata, Citibank, N.A., Banco de Credito del Peru 
and Crocker National Bank. He is a graduate of the University of Lima. 

Mr. Andrew Levy is one of the independent directors of Copa Holdings. He is currently Chairman of Audit Committee and Independent 
Director Committees. CEO of Houston Air Holdings, Inc, owner of a small passenger charger airline in the US. Previously, he served as CFO of UAL. 
He also served as President, Chief Operating Officer and a member of the Board of Directors of Allegiant Travel Company. He joined Allegiant in early 
2001, and during his tenure, his executive responsibilities included strategy, planning, finance, commercial, people and operations. Mr. Levy became 
President in 2009, served as Chief Financial Officer from 2007 to 2010, and was its Treasurer from 2001 through 2010. Mr. Levy started his airline 
career in 1994 at ValuJet Airlines, Inc. and then joined Savoy Capital, an investment, banking and advisory firm specializing in the airline industry in 
1996. He holds a Juris Doctor degree from Emory University School of Law and a BA degree in Economics from Washington University in St. Louis. 

Mr. Josh Connor is one of the independent directors of Copa Holdings. He is the founding partner of the investment firm Connor Capital. 

He was a Managing Director and the Head of the Industrials Banking Group at Barclays until July 2015, and was a member of the firm’s Operating 
Committee. Prior to joining Barclays in 2011, he was with Morgan Stanley for 15 years and was the Co-Head of Morgan Stanley’s Transportation & 
Infrastructure Investment Banking Group, a member of the firm’s Investment Banking Management Committee, and was on the Board of Trustees for 
the Morgan Stanley Foundation. He has a BA degree in Economics from Williams College, is on the Board of Directors of Frontier Airlines, is a 
strategic adviser to Oaktree Capital Management’s Infrastructure Fund, and is a Trustee of Laguna Blanca School. 

Mrs. Julianne Canavaggio was elected as an independent director of Copa Holdings in 2019. She is a Managing Director and Head of Central 
America and the Caribbean for Lazard, responsible for Lazard’s financial advisory division in this geography. Ms. Canavaggio joined Lazard in 2014, 
and has held positions of increasing responsibility. Prior to joining Lazard, Julianne established a successful legal career in mergers and acquisitions 
across a variety of industries. Ms. Canavaggio currently serves on the board of directors of a Sustainable Luxury® real estate development company, as 
well as two private investment vehicles. She has previously served on the board of directors of a conglomerate of wholesale distribution operations for 
fragrances, cosmetics and skin care products, as well as a Panamanian chain of department stores in the mid-high range, and a general license bank 
authorized to operate in Panama in the banking and trust business (fiduciaries). Ms. Canavaggio holds a BA from Harvard University and a JD from 
Tulane University. 

54 

The following table sets forth the name, age and position of each of our executive officers as of February 29, 2020. A brief biographical 

description of each of our executive officers follows the table. 

Pedro Heilbron
José Montero
Daniel Gun
Dennis Cary
Peter Donkersloot
Julio Toro
Bolívar Domínguez
Timothy Manoles
Christophe Didier
Christopher Amenechi
Eduardo Lombana

Chief Executive Officer and Director
Chief Financial Officer
Senior Vice-President of Operations
Senior Vice-President of Commercial and Planning
Vice-President of Human Resources
Vice-President of Technology
Vice-President of Flight Operations
Loyalty Vice-President
Vice-President of Sales
Vice-President of Pricing and Revenue Management
Chief Executive Officer of AeroRepública, S.A. (Copa 
Airlines Colombia)

61
50
52
55
36
46
44
59
56
54
58

Mr. Pedro Heilbron has been our Chief Executive Officer since 1988. He received an MBA from George Washington University and a 

BA from College of the Holy Cross. Mr. Heilbron is the brother of Mr. Alvaro Heilbron, a member of our Board of Directors. 

Mr. Jose Montero has been our Chief Financial Officer since March 2013. He started his career with Copa Airlines in 1993 and has held 

various technical, supervisory, and management positions including Manager of Flight Operations, Director of System Operations Control Center 
(SOCC), and, between 2004 and 2013, Director of Strategic Planning. He has a BS in Aeronautical Studies from Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University 
and an MBA from Cornell University. 

Mr. Daniel Gunn has been our Senior Vice-President of Operations since February 2009. Prior to this Mr. Gunn had served as Vice-

President of Commercial and Planning and Vice-President of Planning and Alliances. Prior to joining Copa in 1999, he spent five years with American 
Airlines holding positions in Finance, Real Estate and Alliances. Mr. Gunn received a BA in Business & Economics from Wheaton College and an 
MBA from the University of Southern California. 

Mr. Dennis Cary has been our Senior Vice-President of Commercial and Planning, since April 2015. Prior to joining Copa Airlines, 

Mr. Cary held Senior Vice-President position in various industries, including aviation. Mr. Cary served as Senior Vice-President, Chief Marketing and 
Customer Officer at United Airlines, and several other top management positions in United Airlines and American Airlines. Mr. Cary graduated from 
California State University, Northridge with a bachelor’s degree in Computer Sciences and holds an MBA from Duke University. 

Mr. Peter Donkersloot joined Copa Airlines in August 2019 and has served as Vice President of Human Resources since January 2020. 

Mr. Donkersloot has over fifteen years working experience holding key positions in five different countries (Jamaica, Panama, Peru, El Salvador and 
Guatemala). His experience ranges in Commercial Operations, Logistics, Risk Assessment, Strategic Planning and General Management. He holds a 
Global MBA from the Thunderbird School of Global Management along with professional qualifications in Industrial Engineering from the Instituto 
Tecnológico y de Estudios Superiores de Monterrey (ITESM). 

Mr. Julio Toro has been our Vice-President of Technology since October 2015. He joined Copa in May 2011 as Director of the Project 

Management Office. Before joining Copa, he served as Operations Manager and Vice-President of Information Systems for Cable & Wireless Panama. 
He received a BS in Electrical Engineering from Texas A&M University, a Master in Renewable Energy from Universidad Tecnológica, and an MBA 
jointly issued by New York University Stern School of Business, London School of Economics and Political Science, and HEC Paris School of 
Management. 

Captain Bolivar Dominguez G. has been our Vice President of Flight Operations since December 2017. He began his career with Copa 
Airlines in 2000 as a Copilot in the Boeing 737-200, and throughout his career within the Company, he has held roles of increased responsibility, such 
as Head of Training on the Embraer fleet, Director of System Operations Control Center (SOCC), and most recently Chief Pilot. Bolivar is also a 
member since 2019 of the IATA Safety, Flight and Ground Operations Advisory Council (SFGOAC), responsible to act as advisor to the Board of 
Governors and the Director General of IATA on all matters connected with the improvement of safety and efficiency of civil air transport, ground 
operations and baggage. Bolivar holds an Airline Transport Pilot License, with Type Ratings on the Boeing 727, Embraer 190, and Boeing 737, and 
received a BS in Industrial Engineering from Universidad Latina and a MBA from the University of Louisville. 

55 

Mr. Timothy Manoles has been our Loyalty Vice-President since October 2016. Prior to joining Copa, he was a senior Partner, Vice 

President for The Lacek Group, a specialty loyalty marketing agency of Ogilvy and Mather. He has over 30 years of experience in loyalty marketing 
having led engagements and helped devise, negotiate and manage strategic alliances with a variety of recognized category leaders, including Northwest 
Airlines, Delta Airlines, US Bank, Polo Ralph Lauren, American Express Travel, Disney, Cox Communications, Swissôtel, American Family Insurance, 
Foundation Health Systems, American Family Insurance, and Ford Motor Company. He holds a degree in economics from Westmont College, 
California, and in management information systems from the University of Minnesota. 

Mr. Christophe Didier has been our Vice-President of Sales since September 2016. Prior to joining Copa Airlines, Mr. Didier held 

several sales and marketing positions in the airline industry since 1990, including Air France, Delta Air Lines and Etihad Airways, based in Europe and 
the Americas. He served as Delta’s Vice-President for Latin America and the Caribbean during Delta’s significant expansion in the region, merger with 
Northwest Airlines and Transatlantic joint venture implementation with Air France / KLM and equity investment in Gol and Aeromexico. Mr. Didier, a 
French and Brazilian National, holds a Master in Management from ESCP Europe business school based in Paris and speaks English, Spanish, 
Portuguese and French. 

Mr. Christopher Amenechi has been our Vice-President of Pricing and Revenue Management since May 2016. Prior to joining Copa, 

Mr. Amenechi was Vice-President of Revenue Management and Porter Escapes at Porter Airlines in Toronto, Canada. He also served as Vice President 
of E-Commerce and Merchandising at United Airlines where he held several top management positions over a 20-year career. Mr. Amenechi graduated 
from Embry Riddle Aeronautical University, Daytona Beach with a bachelor’s degree in Aeronautical Engineering and a Masters in Aviation 
Management. 

Mr. Eduardo Lombana joined the Company in May 2005 as Chief Operating Officer and was appointed as Chief Executive Officer of 

Copa Colombia as of February 2012. He served three years at Avianca as Vice-President of Network, responsible for revenue management, network 
planning and revenue accounting during the company’s bankruptcy turn over. Prior to that, he served as VicePresident of Flight Operations for ACES 
before it merged with Avianca. Mr. Lombana holds a BS in Aviation Technology and an AS in Aviation Maintenance Technology from Embry Riddle 
Aeronautical University. 

The business address for all of our senior management is c/o Copa Airlines, Avenida Principal y Avenida de la Rotonda, Urbanización 

Costa del Este, Complejo Business Park, Torre Norte, Parque Lefevre Panama City, Panama. 

B. Compensation 

In 2019, we paid an aggregate of approximately $5.0 million in cash compensation to our executive officers. In addition, members of 

committees of the Board of Directors receive additional compensation per committee meeting. All of the members of our Board of Directors and their 
spouses receive benefits to travel on Copa flights as well. 

Incentive Compensation Program 

In 2005, the Compensation Committee of our Board of Directors eliminated the then-existing Long Term Retention Plan and approved a 

one-time non-vested stock bonus award program for certain executive officers or the “Stock Incentive Plan”. Non-vested stock delivered under the 
Stock Incentive Plan may be sourced from treasury stock or authorized un-issued shares. In accordance with this program, the Compensation Committee 
of our Board of Directors had granted restricted stock awards to our senior management and to certain named executive officers and key employees. 
Normally, these shares vest over three to five years in yearly installments equal to one-third of the awarded stock on each anniversary of the grant date, 
100% of the awarded stock at the third anniversary of the grant date or in yearly installments equal to 15% of the awarded stock on each of the first three 
anniversaries of the grant date, 25% on the fourth anniversary and 30% on the fifth anniversary. 

The following table shows shares granted 

Shares
Fair value
Contractual life

2019
28,497
$ 96.46
3 years

2018

43,355
$
135.81
3 to 5 years

2017
36,229
$ 107.29
3 years

56 

The Compensation Committee plans to make additional equity-based awards under the plan from time to time, including additional 
non-vested stock and stock option awards. While the Compensation Committee will retain discretion to vary the exact terms of future awards, we 
anticipate that future employee non-vested stock and stock option awards granted pursuant to the plan will generally vest over a three-year period and 
the stock options will carry a ten-year term. 

The total compensation cost recognized for non-vested stock and options awards amounts to $6.1 million, $7.1 million, and $7.4 million in 

2019, 2018, and 2017, respectively, and was recorded as a component of “Wages, salaries, benefits and other employees’ expenses” within operating 
expenses. 

During the first quarter of 2020, the Compensation Committee of the Company’s Board of Directors approved two awards. Awards under 

these plans will grant approximately 50,381 shares of non-vested stock, which will vest over a period of three years. The Company estimates the fair 
value of these awards to be approximately $5.4 million and the 2020 compensation cost for these plans will be $2.5 million. 

Please also see “Item 6D. Employees” for a description of the bonus plan implemented by the Company. 

C. Board Practices 

Our Board of Directors currently meets quarterly. Additionally, informal meetings with UAL are held on an ongoing basis, and are 

supported by annual formal meetings of an “Alliance Steering Committee”, which directs and reports on the progress of the Copa and UAL Alliance. 
Our Board of Directors is focused on providing our overall strategic direction and as a result is responsible for establishing our general business policies 
and for appointing our executive officers and supervising their management. 

Currently, our Board of Directors is comprised of eleven members. The number of directors elected each year varies. Messrs. Stanley 

Motta, Jose Castañeda, Jaime Arias and Josh Connor were re-elected as directors for two-year terms at our annual shareholders’ meeting held in 2019. 
Messrs. Pedro Heilbron, Ricardo A. Arias, Alvaro Heilbron, Carlos A. Motta, John Gebo, Roberto Artavia and Andrew Levy were each re-elected for 
two-year terms at our annual shareholders’ meeting held in 2018. Mr. Roberto Artavia tendered his resignation as director of the Company in August 
2019 and Mrs. Julianne Canavaggio was elected as director to fill the vacancy. 

Pursuant to contractual arrangements with us and CIASA, UAL is entitled to designate one of our directors. Currently, Mr. John Gebo is 

the UAL-appointed director. 

None of our Directors has entered into any service contract with the Company or its subsidiaries. 

Committees of the Board of Directors 

Audit Committee. The primary function of the Audit Committee is to assist the Board of Directors in fulfilling its oversight 

responsibilities by reviewing: 

•

•

•

•

the integrity of financial reports and other financial information made available to the public or any regulator or governmental body; 

the effectiveness of our internal financial control and risk management systems, including cybersecurity and privacy risks and the 
Company’s procedures and policies for assessing and managing such risks; 

the effectiveness of our internal audit function, and the independent audit process including the appointment, retention, compensation, and 
supervision of the independent auditor; and 

the compliance with laws and regulations, as well as the policies and ethical codes established by management and the Board of Directors. 

The Audit Committee is also responsible for implementing procedures for receiving, retaining and addressing complaints regarding 

accounting, internal control and auditing matters, including the submission of confidential, anonymous complaints from employees regarding 
questionable accounting or auditing matters. 

Mrs. Julianne Canavaggio and Messrs. Jose Castañeda, Josh Connor, and Andrew Levy, all independent non-executive directors under the 

applicable rules of the New York Stock Exchange, are the current members of the committee. The Committee’s chairman is Mr. Andrew Levy. All 
members are financially literate. Messrs. Castañeda, Connor, and Levy have been determined to be financial experts by the Board of Directors. 

57 

Compensation Committee. Our Compensation Committee is responsible for the selection process of the Chief Executive Officer and the 

evaluation of all executive officers (including the CEO), recommending the level of compensation and any associated bonus. The charter of our 
Compensation Committee requires that all its members shall be non-executive directors, of which at least one member will be an independent director 
under the applicable rules of the New York Stock Exchange. Messrs. Stanley Motta, Jaime Arias and Jose Castañeda are the members of our 
Compensation Committee, and Mr. Stanley Motta is the Chairman of the Compensation Committee. 

Nominating and Corporate Governance Committee. Our Nominating and Corporate Governance Committee is responsible for 

developing and recommending criteria for selecting new directors, overseeing evaluations of the Board of Directors, its members and committees of the 
Board of Directors and handling other matters that are specifically delegated to the Nominating and Corporate Governance Committee by the Board of 
Directors from time to time. Our charter documents require that there be at least one independent member of the Nominating and Corporate Governance 
Committee until the first shareholders’ meeting to elect directors after such time as the Class A shares are entitled to full voting rights. Messrs. Carlos 
Alberto Motta, Alvaro Heilbron, and José Castañeda are the members of our Nominating and Corporate Governance Committee, and Mr. Carlos Alberto 
Motta is the Chairman of the Nominating and Corporate Governance Committee. 

Independent Directors Committee. Our Independent Directors Committee is created by our Articles of Incorporation and consists of any 
directors that the Board of Directors determines from time to time meet the independence requirements of the NYSE rules applicable to audit committee 
members of foreign private issuers. Our Articles of Incorporation provide that there will be no fewer than three independent directors at all times, 
subject to certain exceptions. Under our Articles of Incorporation, the Independent Directors Committee must approve: 

•

•

•

any transactions in excess of $5 million between us and our controlling shareholders; 

the designation of certain primary share issuances that will not be included in the calculation of the percentage ownership pertaining to the 
Class B shares for purposes of determining whether the Class A shares should be converted to voting shares under our Articles of 
Incorporation; and 

the issuance of additional Class B shares or Class C shares to ensure Copa Airlines’ compliance with aviation laws and regulations. 

The Independent Directors Committee shall also have any other powers expressly delegated by the Board of Directors. Under the Articles 

of Incorporation, these powers can only be changed by the Board of Directors acting as a whole upon the written recommendation of the Independent 
Directors Committee. The Independent Directors Committee will only meet regularly until the first shareholders’ meeting at which the Class A 
shareholders will be entitled to vote for the election of directors and afterwards at any time that Class C shares are outstanding. All decisions of the 
Independent Directors Committee shall be made by a majority of the members of the committee. See “Item 10B. Memorandum and Articles of 
Association—Description of Capital Stock”. 

Mrs. Julianne Canavaggio and Messrs. Jose Castañeda, Josh Connor, and Andrew Levy, are independent non-executive directors under the 

applicable rules of the New York Stock Exchange, are the current members of the committee. 

D. Employees 

We believe that our growth potential and the achievement of our results-oriented corporate goals are directly linked to our ability to attract, 

motivate and maintain the best professionals available in the airline business. In order to help retain our employees, we encourage open communication 
channels between our employees and management. Our CEO meets quarterly with all of our Copa employees in Panama in town hall-style meetings 
during which he explains the Company’s performance and encourages feedback from attendees. A similar presentation is made by our senior executives 
at each of our foreign stations. Our compensation strategy reinforces our determination to retain talented and highly motivated employees and is 
designed to align the interests of our employees with our shareholders through profit-sharing. 

58 

Approximately 78.5% of the Company’s employees are located in Panama, while the remaining 21.5% are distributed among our foreign 

stations. Copa’s employees can be categorized as follows: 

December 31,

Pilots
Flight attendants
Mechanics
Customer service agents, reservation agents, ramp and others
Management and clerical
Total employees

2019
1,391
2,185
527
2,544
2,230
8,877

2018
1,426
2,358
440
2,905
2,321
9,450

2017
1,290
2,204
512
2,919
2,120
9,045

Our profit-sharing program reflects our belief that our employees will remain dedicated to our success if they have a stake in that success. 

We identify key performance drivers within each employee’s control as part of our annual objectives plan, or “Path to Success”. Typically, we pay 
bonuses in the first quarter of the year based on our performance during the preceding calendar year. For members of management, 75% of the bonus 
amount is based on our performance as a whole and 25% is based on the achievement of individual goals. Bonuses for non-management employees are 
based on the Company’s performance and payment is typically a multiple of the employee’s weekly salary. The bonus payments are approved by our 
compensation committee. We typically make accruals each month for the expected annual bonuses, which are reconciled to actual payments at their 
dispersal within the first half of the following year. 

We provide training for all of our employees, including technical training for our pilots, dispatchers, flight attendants and other technical 
staff. In addition, we provide recurrent customer service training to frontline staff, as well as leadership training for managers. We currently have four 
flight simulators at our training facility in Panama’s City of Knowledge. In 2006, we leased a Level B flight simulator for Boeing 737-Next Generation 
training that served 80% of our initial training, transition and upgrade training, and 100% of our recurrent training needs relating to that aircraft. During 
2007, we upgraded this simulator to Level C to provide 100% of our initial training. We leased a similar flight simulator for Embraer 190 until October 
2015, when we decided to buy this simulator to serve our initial and recurrent training needs. In 2011, Copa bought a second 737-Next Generation Full 
Flight Simulator, or “FFS”, Level D. The Level D qualification is the highest certification provided by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) to 
any Flight Training Device. Another important acquisition in 2011 was the second B737 Virtual Procedure Trainer (VPT), which complements the new 
FFS training. In October 2012, the lease on our first B737 Next Generation simulator expired and we bought a new FFTX technology training device 
accompanied by a new Virtual Procedure Trainer (VPT). In 2015, Copa bought a new Boeing 737-800 Full Flight Simulator (FFS-X) compliant with 
regulatory Qualification Level D, and two new B737-800 Cockpit Procedure Trainers (CPTs) compliant with regulatory Qualification FTD Level 4 to 
provide 100% of our initial, recurrent, transition and upgrade training needs. We bought a new Boeing 737 MAX Full Flight Simulator compliant with 
regulatory qualification Level D to provide 100% of our training needs which is available for use since May of 2019. 

Approximately 61.8% of the Company’s 8,877 employees are unionized. Our employees currently belong to nine union organizations; five 

covering employees in Panama and four covering employees in Colombia, in addition to union organizations in other countries to which we fly. Copa 
Airlines has traditionally had good relations with its employees and all the unions, and expects to continue to enjoy good relations with its employees 
and the unions in the future. 

The five unions covering employees in Panama include: the pilots’ union (UNPAC); the flight attendants’ union (SIPANAB); the 

mechanics’ union (SITECMAP), the industry union (SIELAS), which represents ground personnel, messengers, drivers, passenger service agents, 
counter agents and other non-executive administrative staff, and other industry union named UGETRACO which represents ground personnel and flight 
attendants. 

Copa entered into collective bargaining agreements with the pilots’ union in July 2017, the industry union in December 2017, the 

mechanics’ union in June 2018 and with the flight attendants’ union in October 2018. Collective bargaining agreements in Panama are typically between 
three and four-year terms. 

The four unions covering employees in Colombia are: the pilots’ union (ACDAC), the flight attendants’ union (ACAV), the industry union 

in Colombia (SITRANAC), and the Mechanics Union in Colombia (ACMA). 

Copa entered into collective bargaining with ACDAC and ACAV in January 2018. ACDAC has not yet resolved and ACAV ended with 

an arbitration process and we have a new arbitration collective document for terms of two years until September 2020. 

59 

Additionally, SINTRATAC and Copa entered into collective bargaining agreement in December 2017 for terms of four years until 

December 2021. Negotiations with ACMA were resolved by arbitration on December 31, 2015, extending the validation every 6 months from this date, 
until June 30, 2018. ACMA has not presented a new bill of petition. 

Typically, collective bargaining agreements in Colombia have terms of two to three years. Although Copa Colombia usually settles many 

of its collective bargaining agreement negotiations through arbitration proceedings, it has traditionally experienced good relations with its unions. 

In addition to the unions in Panama and Colombia, the Company’s employees in Brazil are covered by industry union agreements that 

cover all airline industry employees in the country and airport employees in Argentina are affiliated with an industry union (UPADEP). 

E. Share Ownership 

The members of our Board of Directors and our executive officers as a group own less than one percent of our Class A shares. See “Item 

7A. Major Shareholders”. 

For a description of stock options granted to our Board of Directors and our executive officers, see “—Compensation—Incentive 

Compensation Program”. 

Item 7. Major Shareholders and Related Party Transactions 

A. Major Shareholders 

The following table sets forth information relating to the beneficial ownership of our Class A shares as of December 31, 2019 by each 

person known to us to beneficially own 5% or more of our common shares and all our directors and officers as a group. 

Class A shares are limited voting shares entitled only to vote in certain specified circumstances. See “Item 10B. Additional Information – Memorandum 
and Articles of Association – Description of Capital Stock”. 

Class A Shares
Beneficially Owned
CIASA(2)
Executive officers and directors as a group (14 persons)
Others
Total

Shares

(%)(1)

0
110,492
31,227,364
31,337,856

0.0% 
0.4% 
99.6% 

(1) Based on a total of 31,337,856 Class A shares outstanding. 
(2) CIASA owns 100% of the Class B shares of Copa Holdings representing 25.9% of our total capital stock. 

In June 2006, Continental reduced its ownership of our total capital stock from 27.3% to 10.0%. In May 2008, Continental sold down its 

remaining shares in the public market. 

CIASA currently owns 100% of the Class B shares of Copa Holdings, representing 100% of the voting power of our capital stock. CIASA 

is controlled by a group of Panamanian investors representing several prominent families in Panama. This group of investors has historically acted 
together in a variety of business activities both in Panama and elsewhere in Latin America, including banking, insurance, real estate, 
telecommunications, international trade and commerce and wholesale. Members of the Motta, Heilbron and Arias families and their affiliated companies 
beneficially own approximately 90% of CIASA’s shares. Our Chief Executive Officer, Mr. Pedro Heilbron, and several of our directors, including 
Messrs. Stanley Motta, Carlos A. Motta, Mr. Alvaro Heilbron, Mr. Jaime Arias and Mr. Ricardo Alberto Arias, and their immediate families as a group, 
beneficially owned approximately 78% of CIASA’s shares, as of February 29, 2020. Such individual shareholders of CIASA have entered into a 
shareholders’ agreement that restricts transfers of CIASA shares to non-Panamanian nationals. Mr. Stanley Motta exercises effective control of CIASA. 

60 

In March 2010, CIASA converted a portion of its Class B shares into 1.6 million non-voting New York Stock Exchange-listed Class A 

shares and sold such Class A shares in an SEC-registered public offering. As a result, CIASA’s ownership decreased from 29.2% to 25.1% of our 
capital stock. CIASA’s current ownership is 25.9% of our capital stock. In the event CIASA seeks to reduce its ownership below 10% of our total share 
capital, our independent directors may decide to issue special voting shares solely to Panamanian nationals to maintain the ownership requirements 
mandated by the Panamanian Aviation Act. 

The address of CIASA is Corporación de Inversiones Aéreas, S.A., c/o Copa Holdings, S.A., Boulevard Costa del Este, Avenida Principal 

y Avenida de la Rotonda, Urbanización Costa del Este, Complejo Business Park, Torre Oeste, Parque Lefevre, Panama City, Panama. 

It is not practicable for us to determine the number of Class A shares beneficially owned in the United States. As of March 8, 2020, we had 

351 registered record holders of our Class A shares. 

B. Related Party Transactions 

Registration Rights Agreement 

Under the registration rights agreement, as amended by the supplemental agreement, CIASA continues to have the right to make one 
demand on us with respect to the registration and sale of our common stock held by them. The registration expenses incurred in connection with a 
demand registration requested after the date hereof, which expenses exclude underwriting discounts and commissions, will be paid ratably by each 
security holder participating in such offering in proportion to the number of their shares that are included in the offering. 

Agreements with our controlling shareholders and their affiliates 

Our directors and controlling shareholders have many other commercial interests within Panama and throughout Latin America. We have 
commercial relationships with several of these affiliated parties from which we purchase goods or services, as described below. In each case we believe 
our transactions with these affiliated parties are consistent with market rates and terms. 

Banco General, S.A. 

We have a strong commercial banking relationship with Banco General, S.A., a Panamanian bank partially owned by our controlling 
shareholders. We have obtained financing from Banco General under short to medium-term financing arrangements for part of the commercial loan 
tranche of one of the Company’s Export-Import Bank facilities. We also maintain general lines of credit and time deposit accounts with Banco General. 
Interest received from Banco General amounted to $4.2 million, $3.8 million and $3.0 million in 2019, 2018, or 2017, respectively. There have not been 
any material interest payments for the last three years. There was no outstanding debt balance at December 31 2019, 2018, or 2017. 

ASSA Compañía de Seguros, S.A. 

Panamanian law requires us to maintain our insurance policies through a local insurance company. We have contracted with ASSA, an 
insurance company controlled by our controlling shareholders, to provide substantially all of our insurance. ASSA has, in turn, reinsured almost all of 
the risks under those policies with insurance companies around the world. The payments to ASSA totaled $11.2 million in 2019, $9.7 million in 2018 
and $8.5 million in 2017. 

Petróleos Delta, S.A. 

During 2005, we entered into a contract with Petróleos Delta, S.A. to supply our jet fuel needs. The price agreed to under this contract is 

based on the two-week average of the U.S. Gulf Coast Waterborne Mean index plus local taxes, certain third-party handling charges and a handling 
charge to Petróleos Delta, S.A. The contract term is four years and the last contract subscribed was in June 2016. While our controlling shareholders do 
not hold a controlling equity interest in Petróleos Delta, S.A., several of our directors are also board members of Petróleos Delta, S.A. Payments to 
Petróleos Delta totaled $376.8 million in 2019, $398.7 million in 2018 and $290.2 million in 2017. 

61 

Desarollo Inmobiliario del Este, S.A. 

During January 2006, we moved into headquarters located six miles away from Tocumen International Airport. We lease six floors 

consisting of approximately 121,686 square feet of the building from Desarollo Inmobiliario Del Este, S.A., an entity controlled by the same group of 
investors that controls CIASA. This lease was renewed in 2015 for 10 more years at a rate of approximately $0.2 million per month. Payments to 
Desarrollo Inmobiliario Del Este, S.A. totaled $4.0 million, $3.8 million and $3.6 million in 2019, 2018 and 2017, respectively. 

Galindo, Arias & Lopez 

Most of our legal work is carried out by the law firm Galindo, Arias & Lopez. Messrs. Jaime Arias and Ricardo Alberto Arias, partners of 

Galindo, Arias & Lopez, are indirect shareholders of CIASA and serve on our Board of Directors. Payments to Galindo, Arias & Lopez totaled 
$0.3 million, $0.5 million and $0.4 million in 2019, 2018 and 2017, respectively. 

Cable Onda, S.A. 

The Company is responsible for providing television and internet broadcasting services in Panama. A member of the Company’s Board of 
Directors is shareholder of Cable Onda, S.A. Payments to Cable Onda, S.A. totaled $1.4 million. $1.7 million, and $1.4 million in 2019, 2018 and 2017, 
respectively. 

Panama Air Cargo Terminal 

Provides cargo and courier services in Panama, an entity controlled by the same group of investors that controls CIASA. Payments to 

Panama Air Cargo Terminal totaled $3.5 million in 2019, $5.8 million in 2018 and $4.9 million in 2017. 

GBM International, Inc. 

Provides systems integration and computer services, as well as technical services and enterprise management. A member of the Company’s Board 
of Directors is shareholder of GBM International, Inc. Payments to GBM International, Inc. totaled $0.2 million, $0.2 million and $0.3 million in 2019, 
2018, 2017, respectively. 

Other Transactions 

We also purchase most of the alcohol and some of the other beverages served on our aircraft from Motta Internacional, S.A. and Global 

Brands, S.A., both of which are controlled by our controlling shareholders. We do not have any formal contracts for these purchases, but pay wholesale 
prices based on price lists periodically submitted by those importers and comparisons to other options in the marketplace. We paid these entities 
approximately $2.0 million in 2019, $1.6 million in 2018 and $1.7 million in 2017. 

C. Interests of Experts and Counsel 

Not applicable. 

Item 8. Financial Information 

A. Consolidated Statements and Other Financial Information 

See “Item 3A. Key Information—Selected Financial Data” and “Item 18. Financial Statements.” 

Legal Proceedings 

In the ordinary course of our business, we are party to various legal actions, which we believe are incidental to the operation of our 

business. While legal proceedings are inherently uncertain, we believe that the outcome of the proceedings to which we are currently a party is not likely 
to have a material adverse effect on our financial position, results of operations and cash flows. 

Dividends and Dividend Policy 

The payment of dividends on our shares is subject to the discretion of our Board of Directors. Under Panamanian law, we may pay 
dividends only out of retained earnings and capital surplus. So long as we do not default on our payments under our loan agreements, there are no 
covenants or other restrictions on our ability to declare and pay dividends. Our Articles of Incorporation provide that all dividends declared by our 
Board of Directors will be paid equally with respect to all of the Class A and Class B shares. See “Item 10B. Additional Information—Memorandum 
and Articles of Association—Description of Capital Stock—Dividends”. 

62 

In February 2016, the Board of Directors approved a change to the dividend policy to limit aggregate annual dividends to an amount equal 
to 40% of the prior year’s annual consolidated underlying net income, to be distributed in equal quarterly installments subject to board ratification each 
quarter. Our Board of Directors may, in its sole discretion and for any reason, amend or discontinue the dividend policy. Our Board of Directors may 
change the level of dividends provided for in this dividend policy or entirely discontinue the payment of dividends. Future dividends with respect to 
shares of our common stock, if any, will depend on, among other things, our results of operations, cash requirements, financial condition, contractual 
restrictions, business opportunities, provisions of applicable law and other factors that our Board of Directors may deem relevant. 

Payment Date
December 13, 2019
September 13, 2019
June 14, 2019
March 15, 2019
December 14, 2018
September 14, 2018
June 15, 2018
March 15, 2018
December 15, 2017
September 12, 2017
June 15, 2017
March 13, 2017
December 15, 2016
September 13, 2016
June 16, 2016
March 16, 2016

Total Dividend Payment
(U.S. Dollars)
$28 million
$28 million
$28 million
$28 million
$37 million
$37 million
$37 million
$37 million
$32 million
$32 million
$22 million
$22 million
$22 million
$22 million
$21 million
$21 million

Cash Dividend per
Share

0.65
0.65
0.65
0.65
0.87
0.87
0.87
0.87
0.75
0.75
0.51
0.51
0.51
0.51
0.51
0.51

Dividend for
Fiscal Year:
2019
2019
2019
2019
2018
2018
2018
2018
2017
2017
2017
2017
2016
2016
2016
2016

B. Significant Changes 

None 

Item 9. The Offer and Listing 

A. Offer and Listing Details 

Our Class A shares have been listed on the New York Stock Exchange, or NYSE, under the symbol “CPA” since December 14, 2005. 

B. Plan of Distribution 

Not applicable. 

C. Markets 

Our Class A shares have been listed on the NYSE under the symbol “CPA” since December 14, 2005. Our Class B shares are not listed on 

any exchange and are not publicly traded. We are subject to the NYSE corporate governance listing standards. The NYSE requires that corporations 
with shares listed on the exchange comply with certain corporate governance standards. As a foreign private issuer, we are only required to comply with 
certain NYSE rules relating to audit committees and periodic certifications to the NYSE. The NYSE also requires that we provide a summary of the 
significant differences between our corporate governance practices and those that would apply to a U.S. domestic issuer. Please refer to “Item 16 G. 
Corporate Governance” for a summary of the significant differences between our corporate governance practices and those that would typically apply to 
a U.S. domestic issuer under the NYSE corporate governance rules. 

63 

D. Selling Shareholders 

Not applicable. 

E. Dilution 

Not applicable. 

F. Expenses of the Issue 

Not applicable. 

Item 10. Additional Information 

A. Share Capital 

Not applicable. 

B. Memorandum and Articles of Association 

Copa Holdings was formed on May 6, 1998 as a corporation (sociedad anónima) duly incorporated under the laws of Panama with an 

indefinite duration. The Registrant is registered under Public Document No. 3.989 of May 5, 1998 of the Notary Number Eight of the Circuit of Panama 
and recorded in the Public Registry Office, Microfilm (Mercantile) Section, Microjacket 344962, Film Roll 59672, Frame 0023. 

Objects and Purposes 

Copa Holdings is principally engaged in the investment in airlines and aviation-related companies and ventures, although our Articles of 

Incorporation grant us general powers to engage in any other lawful business, whether or not related to any of the specific purposes set forth in the 
Articles of Incorporation (See Article 2 of the Company’s Articles of Incorporation). 

Common Stock 

Our authorized capital stock consists of 80 million shares of common stock without par value, divided into Class A shares, Class B shares 

and Class C shares. As of December 31, 2019, we had 33,835,747 Class A shares issued and 31,337,856 Class A shares outstanding; 10,938,125 Class B 
shares issued and outstanding, and no Class C shares outstanding. Class A and Class B shares have the same economic rights and privileges, including 
the right to receive dividends, except as described in this section. 

For a description of our common stock, see Exhibit 2.d to this annual report. 

C. Material Contracts 

1998 Aircraft General Terms Agreement between The Boeing Company and Copa Airlines 

In 1998, Copa entered into an agreement with Boeing for the purchase of aircraft, installation of buyer furnished equipment provided by 

Copa, customer support services and product assurance. In addition to the aircraft supplied, the Boeing Company will provide maintenance training and 
flight training programs, as well as operations engineering support. The agreement is still in effect and has been amended several times since then, most 
recently in October 2019. 

64 

Purchase Agreement between Empresa Brasileira de Aeronautica, S.A. and Copa Airlines 

In 2003 and 2006, Copa entered into a purchase agreement with Empresa Brasileira de Aeronautica, S.A (Embraer) for the purchase of 

aircraft, customer support services and technical publications. This agreement is still in effect. 

Engine Services Agreements between GE Engine Services, LLC and Copa Holdings, S.A. 

Since May 2011, we have entered into three separate Rate per Engine Flight Hour Engine Services Agreements with GE Engine Services, 

LLC, pursuant to which GE shall be the exclusive provider of maintenance, repair and overhaul services to our CF-34 and CFM-56 aircraft engines. 
Most maintenance services are performed at a certain rate per engine flight hour incurred by our engines. These rates were set based on our predicted 
operating parameters and will be adjusted in case of variation of those parameters. Unless terminated, the agreement with respect to the CF-34 engines 
will continue through September 30, 2022 while the agreements with respect to the CFM-56 engines expire on December 31, 2021 and April 30, 2026, 
respectively, in each case unless renewed upon the parties’ mutual agreements. Either party may terminate the agreement in the event of insolvency of 
the other party or upon a material breach by the other party which remains uncured. Any material breach by us of this agreement could, at the option of 
GE, trigger a cross-default of all our other contracts with GE. GE may also terminate this agreement if the number of engines covered decreases below 
the prescribed minimum. Upon early termination of the agreement for any reason, we shall pay GE for all services or work performed by GE up to the 
time of such termination by means of reconciliation. 

MAX Aircraft purchase Agreement between the Boeing Company and Copa Airlines. 

In April 2015, Copa finalized negotiations with the Boeing Company for the purchase of 737 MAX airplanes. These negotiations started in 

2013, and the agreement has been amended several times since then, most recently in October 2019. 

D. Exchange Controls 

There are currently no Panamanian restrictions on the export or import of capital, including foreign exchange controls, and no restrictions on the 
payment of dividends or interest, nor are there limitations on the rights. 

E. Taxation 

United States 

The following summary describes the material United States federal income tax consequences of the ownership and disposition of our 

Class A shares as of the date hereof. The discussion set forth below is applicable to United States Holders (as defined below) that beneficially own our 
Class A shares as capital assets for United States federal income tax purposes (generally, property held for investment). This summary does not 
represent a detailed description of the United States federal income tax consequences applicable to you if you are subject to special treatment under the 
United States federal income tax laws, including if you are: 

•

•

•

•

•

•

•

•

•

•

•

•

•

a bank; 

a dealer in securities or currencies; 

a financial institution; 

a regulated investment company; 

a real estate investment trust; 

an insurance company; 

a tax-exempt organization; 

a person holding our Class A shares as part of a hedging, integrated or conversion transaction, a constructive sale or a 
straddle; 

a trader in securities that has elected the mark-to-market method of accounting for your securities; 

a person liable for alternative minimum tax; 

a person who owns 10% or more of our stock (by vote or value); 

a partnership or other pass-through entity (or investor therein) for United States federal income tax purposes; or 

a person whose “functional currency” is not the United States dollar. 

65 

The discussion below is based upon the provisions of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended (the “Code”), and regulations, 

rulings and judicial decisions thereunder as of the date hereof, and such authorities may be replaced, revoked or modified so as to result in United States 
federal income tax consequences different from those discussed below. 

If you are considering the purchase, ownership or disposition of our Class A shares, you should consult your own tax advisors concerning the 
United States federal income tax consequences to you in light of your particular situation as well as any consequences arising under state or 
local law or under the laws of any other taxing jurisdiction. 

As used herein, “United States Holder” means a beneficial owner of our Class A shares that is for United States federal income tax 

purposes: 

•

•

•

•

an individual citizen or resident of the United States; 

a corporation (or other entity treated as a corporation for United States federal income tax purposes) created or organized in 
or under the laws of the United States, any state thereof or the District of Columbia; 

an estate the income of which is subject to United States federal income taxation regardless of its source; or 

a trust if it (1) is subject to the primary supervision of a court within the United States and one or more United States 
persons have the authority to control all substantial decisions of the trust or (2) has a valid election in effect under 
applicable United States Treasury regulations to be treated as a United States person. 

If a partnership holds our Class A shares, the tax treatment of a partner will generally depend upon the status of the partner and upon the 

activities of the partnership. An investor who is a partner of a partnership holding our Class A shares should consult its own tax advisor. 

Taxation of Dividends 

Distributions on the Class A shares (including amounts withheld to reflect Panamanian withholding taxes, if any) will be taxable as 

dividends to the extent paid out of our current or accumulated earnings and profits, as determined under United States federal income tax principles. 
Such income (including withheld taxes) will be includable in your gross income as foreign-source ordinary income on the day actually or constructively 
received by you. Such dividends will not be eligible for the dividends received deduction allowed to corporations. Because we do not intend to keep 
earnings and profits in accordance with United States federal income tax principles, you should expect that distributions on the Class A shares will 
generally be treated as dividends. 

With respect to non-corporate United States Holders, certain dividends received from a qualified foreign corporation may be subject to 

reduced rates of taxation. A foreign corporation generally is treated as a qualified foreign corporation with respect to dividends paid by that corporation 
on shares that are readily tradable on an established securities market in the United States. United States Treasury Department guidance indicates that 
our Class A shares, which are listed on the NYSE, are currently readily tradable on an established securities market in the United States. There can be no 
assurance, however, that our Class A shares will be considered readily tradable on an established securities market at a later date. Non-corporate United 
States Holders that do not meet a minimum holding period requirement during which they are not protected from the risk of loss or that elect to treat the 
dividend income as “investment income” pursuant to Section 163(d) (4) of the Code will not be eligible for the reduced rates of taxation regardless of 
our status as a qualified foreign corporation. In addition, the rate reduction will not apply to dividends if the recipient of a dividend is obligated to make 
related payments with respect to positions in substantially similar or related property. This disallowance applies even if the minimum holding period has 
been met. You should consult your own tax advisors regarding the application of these rules to your particular circumstances. 

Subject to certain conditions and limitations, Panamanian withholding taxes on dividends may be treated as foreign taxes eligible for credit 
against your United States federal income tax liability. For purposes of calculating the foreign tax credit, dividends paid on the Class A shares generally 
will be treated as income from sources outside the United States and will generally constitute passive income. Further, in certain circumstances, if you: 

•

•

have held Class A shares for less than a specified minimum period during which you are not protected from risk of loss, or 

are obligated to make related to the payments with respect to positions in substantially similar or related property, 

You will not be allowed a foreign tax credit for foreign taxes imposed on dividends paid on the Class A shares, if any. The rules governing 

the foreign tax credit are complex. You are urged to consult your tax advisors regarding the availability of the foreign tax credit under your particular 
circumstances. 

66 

Passive Foreign Investment Company 

We do not believe that we were a passive foreign investment company (a “PFIC”) for United States federal income tax purposes for 2019, 

and we expect to operate in such a manner so as not to become a PFIC in 2020 or the foreseeable future. However, the determination whether we are a 
PFIC must be made annually based on the facts and circumstances at that time, some of which may be beyond our control, such as our market 
capitalization and the valuation of our assets, including goodwill and other intangible assets, and the nature and sources of our income. If, contrary to 
our expectations, we are or become a PFIC, you could be subject to additional United States federal income taxes on gain recognized with respect to the 
Class A shares and on certain distributions, plus an interest charge on certain taxes treated as having been deferred under the PFIC rules. Further, 
non-corporate United States Holders will not be eligible for reduced rates of taxation on any dividends received from us if we are a PFIC in the taxable 
year in which such dividends are paid or the preceding taxable year. 

Taxation of Capital Gains 

For United States federal income tax purposes, you will recognize taxable gain or loss on any sale or exchange of a Class A share in an 

amount equal to the difference between the amount realized for the Class A share and your tax basis in the Class A share. Such gain or loss will 
generally be capital gain or loss. Capital gains of individuals derived with respect to capital assets held for more than one year generally are eligible for 
reduced rates of taxation. The deductibility of capital losses is subject to limitations. Any gain or loss recognized by you will generally be treated as 
United States source gain or loss. 

Information Reporting and Backup Withholding 

In general, information reporting will apply to dividends in respect of our Class A shares and the proceeds from the sale, exchange or 

redemption of our Class A shares that are paid to you within the United States (and in certain cases, outside the United States), unless you establish that 
you are an exempt recipient such as a corporation. A backup withholding tax may apply to such payments unless you provide an accurate taxpayer 
identification number and make any other required certification or otherwise establish an exemption. 

Any amounts withheld under the backup withholding rules will be allowed as a refund or a credit against your United States federal 

income tax liability provided the required information is timely furnished to the Internal Revenue Service. 

Panama 

The following is a discussion of the material Panamanian tax considerations to holders of Class A shares under Panamanian tax law, and is 

based upon the tax laws and regulations in force and effect as of the date hereof, which may be subject to change. This discussion, to the extent it states 
matters of Panamanian tax law or legal conclusions and subject to the qualifications herein, represents the opinion of Galindo, Arias & Lopez, our 
Panamanian counsel. 

Taxation of Dividends 

Dividends paid by a corporation duly licensed to do business in Panama, whether in the form of cash, stock or other property, are subject 

to a 10% withholding tax on the portion attributable to Panamanian sourced income, and a 5% withholding tax on the portion attributable to foreign 
sourced income. Dividends paid by a holding company which correspond to dividends received from its subsidiaries for which the dividend tax was 
previously paid, are not subject to any further withholding tax under Panamanian law. 

Therefore, distributions on the Class A shares would not be subject to withholding tax to the extent that said distributions are attributable 

to dividends received from any of our subsidiaries for which the dividend tax was previously paid. 

Taxation of Capital Gains 

As long as the Class A shares are registered with the SMV and are sold through an organized market, Panamanian taxes on capital gains 

will not apply either to Panamanians or other countries’ nationals. We have registered the Class A shares, with both the NYSE and the SMV. 

67 

Other Panamanian Taxes 

There are no estate, gift or other taxes imposed by the Panamanian government that would affect a holder of the Class A shares, whether 

such holder were Panamanian or a national of another country. 

F. Dividends and Paying Agents 

Not applicable. 

G. Statement by Experts 

Not applicable. 

H. Documents on Display 

We are subject to the informational requirements of the U.S. Securities Exchange Act of 1934, which is also known as the Exchange Act. 

Accordingly, we are required to file reports and other information with the Commission, including annual reports on Form 20-F and reports on Form 
6-K. You may inspect and copy reports and other information to be filed with the Commission at the Public Reference Room of the Commission at 100 
F Street, N.W., Washington D.C. 20549, and copies of the materials may be obtained there at prescribed rates. The public may obtain information on the 
operation of the Commission’s Public Reference Room by calling the Commission in the United States at 1-800-SEC-0330. In addition, the 
Commission maintains a website at www.sec.gov, from which you can electronically access the registration statement and its materials. 

As a foreign private issuer, we are not subject to the same disclosure requirements as a domestic U.S. registrant under the Exchange Act. 

For example, we are not required to prepare and issue quarterly reports. In 2016, the SEC approved a new rule and the NYSE published a new 
requirement for foreign private issuers to submit interim financials as of the end of and for the first two quarters of its fiscal year if they do not already 
furnish interim financials at least semi-annually. This new requirement will not affect us because we furnish our shareholders with annual reports 
containing financial statements audited by our independent auditors and make available to our shareholders quarterly reports containing unaudited 
financial data for the first three quarters of each fiscal year. We furnish such quarterly reports with the SEC within two months of each quarter of our 
fiscal year, and we file annual reports on Form 20-F within the time period required by the SEC, which is currently four months from December 31, the 
end of our fiscal year. 

I. Subsidiary Information 

Not applicable. 

Item 11. Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures about Market Risk 

The risks inherent in our business are the potential losses arising from adverse changes to the price of fuel, interest rates and the U.S. 

dollar exchange rate. Please also refer to note 28 of our financial statements. 

Aircraft Fuel. Our results of operations are affected by changes in the price and availability of aircraft fuel. The Company has not entered 
into new fuel hedge contracts, and has adopted a new strategy of remaining unhedged, while regularly reviewing its policies based on market conditions 
and others factors. As of December 31, 2019, the Company did not have any outstanding fuel hedge contracts. Market risk is estimated as a hypothetical 
10% increase in the December 31, 2019 cost per gallon of fuel. Based on projected 2020 fuel consumption, such an increase would result in an increase 
to aircraft fuel expense of approximately $64.8 million in 2020. There are no hedged contracts for 2020. 

Interest. Our earnings are affected by changes in interest rates due to the impact those changes have on interest expense from variable-rate 

debt instruments and operating leases and on interest income generated from our cash and investment balances. If interest rates average 10% more in 
2020 than they did during 2019, our interest expense would increase by approximately $0.9 million and the fair value of the debt would decrease by 
approximately $6.5 million. If interest rates average 10% less in 2020 than they did in 2019, our interest income from marketable securities would 
decrease by approximately $0.9 million and the fair value of our debt would increase by approximately $6.5 million. These amounts are determined by 
considering the impact of the hypothetical interest rates on our variable-rate debt and marketable securities equivalent balances at December 31, 2019. 

68 

Foreign Currencies. The majority of our obligations are denominated in U.S. dollars. Since Panama uses the U.S. dollar as legal tender, 

the majority of our operating expenses are also denominated in U.S. dollars, approximately 67.3% of revenues and 81.3% of expenses are in U.S. 
dollars. A significant part of our revenue is denominated in foreign currencies, including the Brazilian real, Colombian peso, and Argentinian peso, 
which represented 8.7%, 8.3%, and 4.8% of our revenue in 2019, respectively. 

On January 1, 2015, given the change in its business strategy focused on international markets, Copa Colombia concluded that the most 
appropriate functional currency of the Company would be U.S. dollars. This reflects the fact that the majority of the airline’s business is influenced by 
pricing in international markets, with a dollar economic environment. In the same way, the major operating expenses such as fuel, leasing, airport 
services and sales commissions are dollarized. Until December 31, 2014, the previous functional currency of the Company was the Colombian peso. 

The following chart summarizes the Company’s exchange risk exposure (assets and liabilities denominated in foreign currency) at 

December 31, 2019 and 2018: 

As of
December 31,
2019

$

22,818
—  
73,018
15,726
$ 111,562

$

51,313
37,137
18,513
$ 106,963
4,599
$

As of
December 31,
2018

$

24,123
2
68,171
19,107
$ 111,403

$

48,501
40,243
20,771
$ 109,515
1,888
$

Assets
Cash and cash equivalents
Investments
Accounts receivables, net
Other assets
Total assets
Liabilities
Accounts payables suppliers and agencies
Accumulated taxes and expenses payables
Other liabilities
Total liabilities
Net position

Item 12. Description of Securities Other than Equity Securities 

Not applicable. 

A. Debt securities 

Not applicable. 

B. Warrants and rights 

Not applicable. 

C. Other securities 

Not applicable. 

69 

D. American depositary shares 

Not applicable. 

70 

Item 13. Defaults, Dividend Arrearages and Delinquencies 

None. 

PART II 

Item 14. Material Modifications to the Rights of Security Holders and Use of Proceeds 

None. 

Item 15. Controls and Procedures 

A. Disclosure Controls and Procedures 

Disclosure controls and procedures are designed to ensure that information required to be disclosed by the Company in reports filed or 
submitted under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 is recorded, processed, summarized and reported within the time periods specified in the SEC’s 
rules and forms. We carried out an evaluation under the supervision of our Management, including our Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial 
Officer, of the effectiveness of the design and operation of our disclosure controls and procedures as of December 31, 2019. There are inherent 
limitations to the effectiveness of any system of disclosure controls and procedures, including the possibility of human error and the circumvention or 
overriding of the controls and procedures. Accordingly, even effective disclosure controls and procedures can only provide reasonable assurance of 
achieving their control objectives. Based upon our evaluation, our Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer concluded that our disclosure 
controls and procedures were effective to provide reasonable assurance that information required to be disclosed by us in the reports that we file or 
submit under the Exchange Act is recorded, processed, summarized and reported, within the time periods specified in the applicable rules and forms, 
and that it is accumulated and communicated to our management, including our Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer, as appropriate to 
allow timely decisions regarding required disclosure. 

B. Management’s Annual Report on Internal Control over Financial Reporting 

The Management of Copa Holdings, S.A. or the “Company”, is responsible for establishing and maintaining effective internal control over 
financial reporting as defined in Rules 13a-15(f) under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934. The Company’s internal control over financial reporting is 
designed to provide reasonable assurance to the Company’s management and board of directors regarding the preparation and fair presentation of 
published financial statements. 

Because of its inherent limitations, internal control over financial reporting may not prevent or detect misstatements. Therefore, even those 

systems determined to be effective can provide only reasonable assurance with respect to financial statement preparation and presentation. 

Management assessed the effectiveness of the Company’s internal control over financial reporting as of December 31, 2019. In making 

this assessment, management used the criteria set forth by the Committee of Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission (COSO) in Internal 
Control – Integrated Framework (2013). 

Our internal control over financial reporting is a process designed to provide reasonable assurance regarding the reliability of financial 
reporting and the preparation of financial statements for external purposes in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles. Our internal 
control over financial reporting includes those policies and procedures that: 

(i)

(ii)

pertain to the maintenance of records that, in reasonable detail, accurately and fairly reflect the transactions and dispositions of our assets; 

provide reasonable assurance that transactions are recorded as necessary to permit preparation of financial statements in accordance with 
IFRS, and that our receipts and expenditures are being made only in accordance with authorizations of our management and directors; and 

71 

(iii)

provide reasonable assurance regarding prevention or timely detection of unauthorized acquisition, use or disposition of our assets that 
could have a material effect on our financial statements. 

Based on this assessment, Management believes that, as of December 31, 2019, the Company’s internal control over financial reporting is 

effective based on those criteria. 

C. Attestation Report of the Registered Public Accounting Firm 

The effectiveness of our internal controls over financial reporting as of December 31, 2019 has been audited by Ernst &Young, the 

independent registered public accounting firm who also audited the Company’s consolidated financial statements. Ernst & Young’s attestation report of 
the effectiveness of the Company’s internal control over financial reporting is included herein. 

D. Changes in Internal Control over Financial Reporting 

During the year 2019, the Company performed and internal project that successfully achieved the adoption of the IFRS16. Our internal 

controls over financial reporting were adjusted to mitigate key risks for the adoption of IFRS 16. A risk-based analysis was addressed and documented 
accordingly aligned with our internal control standards. 

There has been no other change in our internal control over financial reporting during 2019 that has materially affected, or is reasonably 

likely to materially affect, our internal control over financial reporting. 

72 

Report of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm 

To the Board of Directors and Shareholders 
COPA HOLDINGS, S.A. and Subsidiaries 

Opinion on Internal Control over Financial Reporting 

We have audited Copa Holdings, S.A. and subsidiaries’ internal control over financial reporting as of December 31, 2019, based on criteria established 
in Internal Control—Integrated Framework issued by the Committee of Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission (2013 framework) (the 
COSO criteria). In our opinion, Copa Holdings, S.A. and subsidiaries (the Company) maintained, in all material respects, effective internal control over 
financial reporting as of December 31, 2019, based on the COSO criteria. 

We also have audited, in accordance with the standards of the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (United States) (PCAOB), the consolidated 
statements of financial position of the Company as of December 31, 2019 and 2018 and the related consolidated statements of profit or loss, 
comprehensive income (loss), changes in equity and cash flows for each of the three years in the period ended December 31, 2019, and the related notes, 
and our report dated April 8, 2020, expressed an unqualified opinion thereon. 

Basis for Opinion 

The Company’s management is responsible for maintaining effective internal control over financial reporting, and for its assessment of the effectiveness 
of internal control over financial reporting included in the accompanying Management’s Annual Report on Internal Control over Financial Reporting. 
Our responsibility is to express an opinion on the Company’s internal control over financial reporting based on our audit. We are a public accounting 
firm registered with the PCAOB and are required to be independent with respect to the Company in accordance with the U.S. federal securities laws and 
the applicable rules and regulations of the Securities and Exchange Commission and the PCAOB. 

We conducted our audit in accordance with the standards of the PCAOB. Those standards require that we plan and perform the audit to obtain 
reasonable assurance about whether effective internal control over financial reporting was maintained in all material respects. 

Our audit included obtaining an understanding of internal control over financial reporting, assessing the risk that a material weakness exists, testing and 
evaluating the design and operating effectiveness of internal control based on the assessed risk, and performing such other procedures as we considered 
necessary in the circumstances. We believe that our audit provides a reasonable basis for our opinion. 

Definition and Limitations of Internal Control Over Financial Reporting 

A company’s internal control over financial reporting is a process designed to provide reasonable assurance regarding the reliability of financial 
reporting and the preparation of financial statements for external purposes in accordance with International Financial Reporting Standards, as issued by 
the International Accounting Standards Board. A company’s internal control over financial reporting includes those policies and procedures that 
(1) pertain to the maintenance of records that, in reasonable detail, accurately and fairly reflect the transactions and dispositions of the assets of the 
company; (2) provide reasonable assurance that transactions are recorded as necessary to permit preparation of financial statements in accordance with 
International Financial Reporting Standards, as issued by the International Accounting Standards Board, 

73 

and that receipts and expenditures of the company are being made only in accordance with authorizations of management and directors of the company; 
and (3) provide reasonable assurance regarding prevention or timely detection of unauthorized acquisition, use or disposition of the company’s assets 
that could have a material effect on the financial statements. 

Because of its inherent limitations, internal control over financial reporting may not prevent or detect misstatements. Also, projections of any evaluation 
of effectiveness to future periods are subject to the risk that controls may become inadequate because of changes in conditions, or that the degree of 
compliance with the policies or procedures may deteriorate. 

Ernst & Young Limited Corp. 
A member practice of 
Ernst & Young Global Limited 

/s/ Ernst & Young Limited Corp. 

Panama City, Republic of Panama 
April 8, 2020 

74 

Item 16. Reserved 

Item 16A. Audit Committee Financial Expert 

Our Board of Directors has determined that Mrs. Julianne Canavaggio and Messrs. Jose Castañeda, Josh Connor and Andrew Levy qualify 

as an “audit committee financial experts” as defined by current SEC rules and meet the independence requirements of the SEC and the NYSE listing 
standards. For a discussion of the role of our audit committee, see “Item 6C. Board Practices—Audit Committee”. 

Item 16B. Code of Ethics 

Our Board of Directors has adopted a Code of Business Conduct and Ethics applicable to our directors, officers, employees and 
consultants. The Code of Business Conduct and Ethics can be found at www.copaair.com under the heading “Investor Relations—Corporate 
Governance”. Information found on this website is not incorporated by reference into this document. 

Item 16C. Principal Accountant Fees and Services 

The following table sets forth by category of service the total fees for services performed by our independent registered public accounting 

firm Ernst & Young and its affiliates during the fiscal years ended December 31, 2019, 2018 and 2017: 

Audit Fees
Audit-Related Fees
Tax Fees
All Other Fees
Total

Audit Fees 

2019
$ 944,220
—  
—  
$ 245,000
$1,189,220

2018
$981,810
—  
—  
—  
$981,810

2017
$1,025,000
—  
—  
—  
$1,025,000

Audit fees for 2019, 2018 and 2017 included the audit of our annual financial statements and internal controls, and the review of our 

quarterly reports. 

Audit-Related Fees 

There were no audit-related fees for 2019, 2018 or 2017. 

Tax Fees 

There were no tax fees for 2019, 2018 or 2017. 

All Other Fees 

Other fees for 2019 include amounts paid for permitted consulting services performed by Ernst & Young and pre-approved by our audit 

committee. There were no such fees in 2018 or 2017. 

75 

Pre-Approval Policies and Procedures 

Our audit committee approves all audit, audit-related, tax and other services provided by Ernst & Young. Any services provided by 

Ernst & Young that are not specifically included within the scope of the audit must be pre-approved by the audit committee in advance of any 
engagement. Pursuant to Rule 201 of Regulation S-X, audit committees are permitted to approve certain fees for audit-related services, tax services and 
other services pursuant to a de minimis exception prior to the completion of an audit engagement. In 2019, none of the fees paid to Ernst & Young were 
approved pursuant to the de minimis exception. 

Item 16D. Exemptions from the Listing Standards for Audit Committees 

None 

Item 16E. Purchase of Equity Securities by the Issuer and Affiliated Purchasers 

The following table provides information related to the share repurchase program executed by month: 

Period
Program 2014 (EOMR)
December 2014
January 2015
February 2015
ASR 2015
September 2015
December 2015
Total

Total number of
shares purchased

Average price
paid per share

Total number of shares
purchased as part of
publicly announced
program

Maximum number
of shares that may
be yet be purchased
under the program

$
$
$

101.84
104.13
109.65

182,592
139,196
28,454

500,000
1,460,250
2,310,492

182,592
321,788
350,242

850,242
2,310,492

2,274,440
2,084,941
1,951,529

In November 2014, the Board of Directors of the Company approved a $250 million share repurchase program. Purchases will be made 

from time to time, subject to market and economic conditions, applicable legal requirements, and other relevant factors. 

During December of 2014 the Company repurchased 182,592 shares for a total amount of $18.4 million. 

In the first quarter of 2015, the Company repurchased 167,650 shares for a total amount of $17.9 million. 

During September 2015 the Company entered into an Accelerated Share Repurchase, or “ASR”, with Citibank for an approximate period 

of 3 months for a total amount of $100 million. On December 15, 2015, Citibank delivered 1,960,250 shares to the Company, recognized at the 
settlement price of $51.01 per share. 

No transactions were made in 2017, 2018 or 2019. 

Item 16F. Changes in Registrant’s Certifying Accountant 

None 

Item 16G. Corporate Governance 

Companies that are registered in Panama are required to disclose whether or not they comply with certain corporate governance guidelines 
and principles that are recommended by the Superintendence of the Securities Market (Superintendencia del Mercado de Valores, or SMV). Statements 
below referring to Panamanian governance standards reflect these voluntary guidelines set by the SMV rather than legal requirements or standard 
national practices. Our Class A shares are registered with the SMV, and we comply with the SMV’s disclosure requirements. 

76 

NYSE Standards
Director Independence.
Majority of board of directors must be independent. §303A.01

Executive Sessions. Non-management directors must meet regularly in 
executive sessions without management.

Independent directors should meet alone in an executive session at least once 
a year. §303A.03

Nominating/Corporate Governance Committee. Nominating/corporate 
governance committee of independent directors is required. The committee 
must have a charter specifying the purpose, duties and evaluation procedures 
of the committee. §303A.04

Compensation Committee. Compensation committee of independent 
directors is required, which must approve or make a recommendation to the 
board regarding executive officer compensation. The committee must have a 
charter specifying the purpose, duties and evaluation procedures of the 
committee. §303A.05

Our Corporate Governance Practice

Panamanian corporate governance standards recommend that one in 
every five directors should be an independent director. The criteria for 
determining independence under the Panamanian corporate governance 
standards differs from the NYSE rules. In Panama, a director would be 
considered independent as long as the director does not directly or 
indirectly own 5% or more of the issued and outstanding voting shares of 
the Company, is not involved in the daily management of the Company 
and is not a spouse or related to the second degree by blood or marriage 
to the persons named above.

Our Articles of Incorporation require us to have three independent 
directors as defined under the NYSE rules.

There are no mandatory requirements under Panamanian law that a 
company should hold, and we currently do not hold, such executive 
sessions.

Panamanian corporate governance standards recommend that registered 
companies have a nominating committee composed of three members of 
the board of directors, at least one of which should be an independent 
director, plus the chief executive officer and the chief financial officer. 
In Panama, the majority of public corporations do not have a nominating 
or corporate governance committee. Our Articles of Incorporation 
require that we maintain a Nominating and Corporate Governance 
Committee with at least one independent director until the first 
shareholders’ meeting to elect directors after such time as the Class A 
shares are entitled to full voting rights.

Panamanian corporate governance standards recommend that the 
compensation of executives and directors be overseen by the nominating 
committee but do not otherwise address the need for a compensation 
committee.

While we maintain a compensation committee that operates under a 
charter as described by the NYSE governance standards, currently only 
one of the members of that committee is independent.

Equity Compensation Plans. Equity compensation plans require shareholder 
approval, subject to limited exemptions.

Under Panamanian law, shareholder approval is not required for equity 
compensation plans.

Code of Ethics. Corporate governance guidelines and a code of business 
conduct and ethics is required, with disclosure of any waiver fordirectors or 
executive officers. §303A.10

Panamanian corporate governance standards do not require the adoption 
of specific guidelines as contemplated by the NYSE standards, although 
they do require that companies disclose differences between their 
practices and a list of specified practices recommended by the SMV.

We have not adopted a set of corporate governance guidelines as 
contemplated by the NYSE, although we will be required to comply with 
the disclosure requirement of the SMV.

Panamanian corporate governance standards recommend that registered 
companies adopt a code of ethics covering such topics as its ethical and 
moral principles, how to address conflicts of interest, the appropriate use 
of resources, obligations to inform of acts of corruption and mechanism 
to enforce the compliance with established rules of conduct.

Item 16H. Mine Safety Disclosure 

None 

77 

PART III 

Item 17. Financial Statements 

See “Item 18. Financial Statements” 

Item 18. Financial Statements 

See our consolidated financial statements beginning on page F-1. 

Item 19. Exhibits 

2.d

3.1**

10.1**†

Description of the registrant’s securities registered pursuant to Section 12 of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934. 

English translation of the Amended Articles of Incorporation (Pacto Social) of the Registrant 

Aircraft Lease Agreement, dated as of October 1, 1998, between First Security Bank – now Wells Fargo Bank Northwest, National 
association - and Compañía Panameña de Aviación, S.A., in respect of Boeing Model 737-71Q Aircraft, Serial No. 29047 

10.1 (2008)

Supplemental Agreement dated as of May 13, 2008 by and among Copa Holdings, S.A. Corporation de Inversiones Aereas, S.A. and 
Continental Airlines, Inc. 

10.2**†

10.3**†

10.4**†

10.5**†

10.6**†

10.7**†

10.8**†

10.9**†

10.10**†

10.11**†

Letter Agreement dated as of November 6, 1998 amending Aircraft Lease Agreement, dated October 1, 1998, between First Security 
Bank– now Wells Fargo Bank Northwest, National association - and Compañía Panameña de Aviación, S.A., in respect of One 
Boeing Model 737-71Q Aircraft, Manufacturer’s Serial No. 29047 

Aircraft Lease Amendment Agreement dated as of May 21, 2003 to Aircraft Lease Agreement, dated October 1, 1998, between Wells 
Fargo Bank Northwest and Compañía Panameña de Aviación, S.A., in respect of Boeing Model 737-71Q Aircraft, Serial No. 29047 

Aircraft Lease Agreement, dated as of October 1, 1998, between First Security Bank and Compañía Panameña de Aviación, S.A., in 
respect of Boeing Model 737-71Q Aircraft, Serial No. 29048 

Letter Agreement dated as of November 6, 1998 amending Aircraft Lease Agreement, dated as of October 1, 1998, between First 
Security Bank and Compañía Panameña de Aviación, S.A., in respect of Boeing Model 737-71Q Aircraft, Serial No. 29048 

Aircraft Lease Amendment Agreement dated as of May 21, 2003 to Aircraft Lease Agreement, dated October 1, 1998, between Wells 
Fargo Bank Northwest and Compañía Panameña de Aviación, S.A., in respect of Boeing Model 737-71Q Aircraft, Serial No. 29048 

Aircraft Lease Agreement, dated as of November 18, 1998, between Aviation Financial Services Inc. and Compañía Panameña de 
Aviación, S.A., Boeing Model 737-700 Aircraft, Serial No. 28607 

Letter Agreement No. 1 dated as of November 18, 1998 to Aircraft Lease Agreement, dated November 18, 1998, between Aviation 
Financial Services Inc. and Compañía Panameña de Aviación, S.A., Boeing Model 737-700 Aircraft, Serial No. 28607 

Letter Agreement No. 2 dated as of March 8, 1999 to Aircraft Lease Agreement, dated November 18, 1998, between Aviation 
Financial Services Inc. and Compañía Panameña de Aviación, S.A., Boeing Model 737-700 Aircraft, Serial No. 28607 

Lease Extension and Amendment Agreement dated as of April 30, 2003, to Aircraft Lease Agreement, dated November 18, 1998, 
between Aviation Financial Services Inc. and Compañía Panameña de Aviación, S.A., Boeing Model 737-700 Aircraft, Serial 
No. 28607 

Aircraft Lease Agreement, dated as of November 18, 1998, between Aviation Financial Services Inc. and Compañía Panameña de 
Aviación, S.A., Boeing Model 737-700 Aircraft, Serial No. 30049 

10.12**†

10.13**†

10.14**†

10.15**†

10.16**†

10.17**†

10.18**†

10.19**†

10.20**†

10.21**

10.22**†

10.23**†

10.24**†

10.25**†

10.26**†

10.27**†

10.28**†

10.29**†

10.30**†

10.31**†

Letter Agreement No. 1 dated as of November 18, 1998 to Aircraft Lease Agreement, dated November 18, 1998, between Aviation 
Financial Services Inc. and Compañía Panameña de Aviación, S.A., Boeing Model 737-700 Aircraft, Serial No. 30049 

Letter Agreement No. 2 dated as of March 8, 1999 to Aircraft Lease Agreement, dated November 18, 1998, between Aviation 
Financial Services Inc. and Compañía Panameña de Aviación, S.A., Boeing Model 737-700 Aircraft, Serial No. 30049 

Lease Extension and Amendment Agreement dated as of April 30, 2003, to Aircraft Lease Agreement, dated November 18, 1998, 
between Aviation Financial Services Inc. and Compañía Panameña de Aviación, S.A., Boeing Model 737-700 Aircraft, Serial 
No. 30049 

Aircraft Lease Agreement, dated as of November 30, 2003, between International Lease Finance corporation and Compañía 
Panameña de Aviación, S.A., Boeing Model 737-700 or 800 Aircraft, Serial No. 30676 

Aircraft Lease Agreement, dated as of March 4, 2004, between International Lease Finance corporation and Compañía Panameña de 
Aviación, S.A., Boeing Model 737-700 or 800 Aircraft, Serial No. 32800 

Aircraft Lease Agreement, dated as of December 23, 2004, between Wells Fargo Bank Noorthwest, N.A. and Compañía Panameña de 
Aviación, S.A., Boeing Model 737- 800 Aircraft, Serial No. 29670 

Embraer 190LR Purchase Agreement DCT-006/2003 dated as of May 2003 between Embraer— Empresa Brasileira de Aeronáutica 
S.A. and Regional Aircraft Holdings Ltd. 

Letter Agreement DCT-007/2003 dated as of May, 2003 to Aircraft Purchase Agreement DCT-006/2003 dated as of May, 2003, 
between Embraer— Empresa Brasileira de Aeronáutica S.A. and Regional Aircraft Holdings Ltd. 

Letter Agreement DCT-008/2003 dated as of May, 2003 to Aircraft Purchase Agreement DCT-006/2003 dated as of May, 2003, 
between Embraer— Empresa Brasileira de Aeronáutica S.A. and Regional Aircraft Holdings Ltd. 

Aircraft General Terms Agreement, dated November 25, 1998, between The Boeing Company and Copa Holdings, S.A. 

Purchase Agreement Number 2191, dated November 25, 1998, between The Boeing Company and Copa Holdings, S.A., Inc. relating 
to Boeing Model 737-7V3 & 737-8V3 Aircraft 

Suplemental agreement No. 1 dated 2001 to Purchase Agreement Number 2191 between The Boeing Company and Copa Holdings, 
S.A. 

Supplemental Agreement No. 2 dated as of December 21, 2001 to Purchase Agreement Number 2191 between The Boeing Company 
and Copa Holdings, S.A. 

Supplemental Agreement No. 3 dated as of June 14, 2002 to Purchase Agreement Number 2191 between The Boeing Company and 
Copa Holdings, S.A. 

Supplemental Agreement No. 4 dated as of December 20, 2002 to Purchase Agreement Number 2191 between The Boeing Company 
and Copa Holdings, S.A. 

Supplemental Agreement No. 5 dated as of October 31, 2003 to Purchase Agreement Number 2191 between The Boeing Company 
and Copa Holdings, S.A. 

Supplemental Agreement No. 6 dated as of September 9, 2004 to Purchase Agreement Number 2191 between The Boeing Company 
and Copa Holdings, S.A. 

Supplemental Agreement No. 7 dated as of December 9, 2004 to Purchase Agreement Number 2191 between The Boeing Company 
and Copa Holdings, S.A. 

Supplemental Agreement No. 8 dated as of April 15, 2005 to Purchase Agreement Number 2191 between The Boeing Company and 
Copa Holdings, S.A. 

Maintenance Cost per Hour Engine Service Agreement, dated March 5, 2003, between G.E. Engine Services, Inc. and Copa Holdings, 
S.A. 

10.32**†

English translation of Aviation Fuel Supply Agreement, dated July 18, 2005, between Petróleos Delta, S.A. and Compañía Panameña 
de Aviación, S.A. 

10.33**†

Form of Amended and Restated Alliance Agreement between Continental Airlines, Inc. and Compañía Panameña de Aviación, S.A. 

10.34**

10.35**

10.36**

10.37**

10.38**

10.39**

10.40*

10.41**

10.42*†

10.43*†

10.44*†

Form of Amended and Restated Services Agreement between Continental Airlines, Inc. and Compañía Panameña de Aviación, S.A. 

Form of Second Amended and Restated Shareholders’ Agreement among Copa Holdings, S.A., Corporación de Inversiones Aéreas, 
S.A. and Continental Airlines, Inc. 

Form of Guaranteed Loan Agreement 

Form of Amended and Restated Registration Rights Agreement among Copa Holdings, S.A., Corporación de Inversiones Aéreas, S.A. 
and Continental Airlines, Inc. 

Form of Copa Holdings, S.A. 2005 Stock Incentive Plan 

Form of Copa Holdings, S.A. Restricted Stock Award Agreement 

Form of Indemnification Agreement with the Registrant’s directors 

Form of Amended and Restated Trademark License Agreement between Continental Airlines, Inc. and Compañía Panameña de 
Aviación, S.A. 

Embraer 190 Purchase Agreement COM 0028-06 dated February 2006 between Embraer—Empresa Brasileira de Aeronáutica S.A. 
and Copa Holdings, S.A. relating to Embraer 190LR aircraft 

Letter Agreement COM 0029-06 to the Embraer Agreement dated February 2006 between Embraer—Empresa Brasileira de 
Aeronáutica S.A. and Copa Holdings, S.A. relating to Embraer 190LR aircraft 

Supplemental Agreement No. 9 dated as of March 16, 2006 to the Boeing Purchase Agreement Number 2191 dated November 25, 
1998 between the Boeing Company and Copa Holdings, S.A. 

10.44 (2006)†

Supplemental Agreement No. 11 dated as of August 30, 2006 to the Boeing Purchase Agreement Number 2191 dated November 25, 
1998 between the Boeing Company and Copa Holdings, S.A. 

10.45*†

Supplemental Agreement No. 10 dated as of May 8, 2006 to the Boeing Purchase Agreement Number 2191 dated November 25, 1998 
between the Boeing Company and Copa Holdings, S.A. 

10.45 (2006)†

Supplemental Agreement No. 12 dated as of February 26, 2007 to the Boeing Purchase Agreement Number 2191 dated November 25, 
1998 between the Boeing Company and Copa Holdings, S.A. 

10.46 (2006)†

Supplemental Agreement No. 13 dated as of April 23, 2007 to the Boeing Purchase Agreement Number 2191 dated November 25, 
1998 between the Boeing Company and Copa Holdings, S.A. 

10.47 (2007)†

Supplemental Agreement No. 14 dated as of August 31, 2007 to the Boeing Purchase Agreement Number 2191 dated November 25, 
1998 between the Boeing Company and Copa Holdings, S.A. 

10.48 (2007)†

Supplemental Agreement No. 15 dated as of February 21, 2008 to the Boeing Purchase Agreement Number 2191 dated November 25, 
1998 between the Boeing Company and Copa Holdings, S.A. 

10.49 (2008)†

Supplemental Agreement No. 16 dated as of June 30, 2008 to the Boeing Purchase Agreement Number 2191 dated November 25, 
1998 between the Boeing Company and Copa Holdings, S.A. 

10.50 (2008)†

Supplemental Agreement No. 17 dated as of December 15, 2008 to the Boeing Purchase Agreement Number 2191 dated 
November 25, 1998 between the Boeing Company and Copa Holdings, S.A. 

10.51 (2009)†

Supplemental Agreement No. 18 dated as of July 15, 2009 to the Boeing Purchase Agreement Number 2191 dated November 25, 
1998 between the Boeing Company and Copa Holdings, S.A 

10.52 (2009)†

Supplemental Agreement No. 19 dated as of August 31, 2009 to the Boeing Purchase Agreement Number 2191 dated November 25, 
1998 between the Boeing Company and Copa Holdings, S.A 

10.53 (2009)†

Supplemental Agreement No. 20 dated as of November 19, 2009 to the Boeing Purchase Agreement Number 2191 dated 
November 25, 1998 between the Boeing Company and Copa Holdings, S.A 

10.54 (2010)†

Supplemental Agreement No. 21 dated as of May 28, 2010 to the Boeing Purchase Agreement Number 2191 dated November 25, 
1998 between the Boeing Company and Copa Holdings, S.A 

10.55 (2010)†

Supplemental Agreement No. 22 dated as of September 24, 2010 to the Boeing Purchase Agreement Number 2191 dated 
November 25, 1998 between the Boeing Company and Copa Holdings, S.A 

10.56 (2010)†

Supplemental Agreement No. 23 dated as of October, 2010 to the Boeing Purchase Agreement Number 2191 dated November 25, 
1998 between the Boeing Company and Copa Holdings, S.A 

10.57 (2011)†

On Pointsm Solutions Rate per Engine Flight Hour Service Agreement dated as of May 22, 2011 between GE Engine Services, LLC., 
Compañía Panameña de Aviación, S.A., and Lease Management Services, LLC. 

10.58 (2012)†

On Pointsm Solutions Rate per Engine Flight Hour Service Agreement dated as of April 15, 2012 between GE Engine Services, LLC., 
Compañía Panameña de Aviación, S.A., and Lease Management Services, LLC. 

10.62 (2017) †

Purchase Agreement No. PA-03774 dated June 27, 2012 between The Boeing Company and Copa Holdings S.A. relating to Boeing 
Model 737 MAX Aircraft. 

12.1

12.2

13.1

13.2

21.1**

101. INS

101. SCH

101. CAL

101. LAB

101. PRE

101. DEF

*

**

2006

2007

2008

2009

Certification of the Chief Executive Officer, pursuant to Rules 13a-14 and 15d-14 under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934. 

Certification of the Chief Financial Officer, pursuant to Rules 13a-14 and 15d-14 under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934. 

Certification of Chief Executive Officer, pursuant to Section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002. 

Certification of the Chief Financial Officer, pursuant to Section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002. 

Subsidiaries of the Registrant 

XBRL Instance Document.

XBRL Taxonomy Extension Schema Document.

XBRL Taxonomy Extension Calculation Linkbase Document.

XBRL Taxonomy Extension Label Linkbase Document.

XBRL Taxonomy Extension Presentation Linkbase Document.

XBRL Taxonomy Extension Definition Document.

Previously filed with the SEC as an exhibit and incorporated by reference from our Registration Statement on Form F-1, filed June 15, 
2006, File No. 333-135031.
Previously filed with the SEC as an exhibit and incorporated by reference from our Registration Statement on Form F-1, filed 
November 28, 2005, as amended on December 1, 2005 and December 13, 2005, File No. 333-129967.
Previously filed with the SEC as an exhibit and incorporated by reference from our Annual Report on Form 20-F, filed July 2, 2007, File 
No.001-07956031.
Previously filed with the SEC as an exhibit and incorporated by reference from our Annual Report on Form 20-F, filed May 9, 2008, File 
No.001-08818238.
Previously filed with the SEC as an exhibit and incorporated by reference from our Annual Report on Form 20-F, filed May 6, 2009, File 
No. 001- 09801609.
Previously filed with the SEC as an exhibit and incorporated by reference from our Annual Report on Form 20-F, filed March 17, 2010, 
File No. 001- 10686910.

2010

2011

2012

†

Previously filed with the SEC as an exhibit and incorporated by reference from our Annual Report on Form 20-F, filed May 17, 2011, as 
amended on December 22, 2011, File No. 001- 111276555
Previously filed with the SEC as an exhibit and incorporated by reference from our Annual Report on Form 20-F, filed April 16, 2012, 
File No. 001- 12762135.
Previously filed with the SEC as an exhibit and incorporated by reference from our Annual Report on Form 20-F, filed April 29, 2013, 
File No. 001- 13792566.
The Registrant was granted confidential treatment for portions of this exhibit.

The Registrant hereby certifies that it meets all of the requirements for filing on Form 20-F and that it has duly caused and authorized the 

undersigned to sign this annual report on its behalf. 

SIGNATURES 

COPA HOLDINGS, S.A.

By: /s/ Pedro Heilbron

Name: Pedro Heilbron
Title: Chief Executive Officer

By: /s/ Jose Montero

Name: Jose Montero
Title: Chief Financial Officer

Dated: April 8, 2020 

Consolidated Financial Statements 

Copa Holdings, S. A. and Subsidiaries 

Year ended December 31, 2019 
with Report of the Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm 

COPA HOLDINGS, S. A. AND SUBSIDIARIES 

Contents 

Report of the Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm
Consolidated statement of financial position
Consolidated statement of profit or loss
Consolidated statement of comprehensive income
Consolidated statement of changes in equity
Consolidated statement of cash flows
1. Corporate information
2. Basis of preparation
3. Significant accounting policies
(a) Basis of consolidation
(b) Current versus non-current classification
(c) Foreign currencies
(d) Revenue recognition
(e) Cash and cash equivalents
(f) Financial instruments
(g) Impairment of non - financial assets
(h) Expendable parts and supplies
(i) Passenger traffic commissions
(j) Property and equipment
(k) Leases
(l) Intangible assets
(m) Taxes
(n) Borrowing costs
(o) Provisions
(p) Employee benefits
(q) Non-current assets held for sale and discontinued operations

4. Significant accounting judgments, estimates and assumptions
5. Adoption of new and amended standards and interpretations
6. Standards issued but not yet effective
7. Revenue from contract with customers

7.1 Revenue disaggregation
7.2 Contract balances

Pages
F-1
F-6
F-7
F-8
F-9
F-10
F-11
F-12
F-13
F-13
F-13
F-14
F-14
F-16
F-16
F-22
F-22
F-22
F-23
F-24
F-26
F-27
F-29
F-29
F-29
F-30
F-30
F-34
F-38
F-39
F-39
F-39

COPA HOLDINGS, S. A. AND SUBSIDIARIES 

Contents 

7.3 Segment reporting

8. Cash and cash equivalents
9. Investments
10. Accounts receivable
11. Expendable parts and supplies
12. Prepaid expenses
13. Property and equipment
14. Leases
15. Net pension assets
16. Intangible assets
17. Other assets
18. Debt
19. Trade, other payables and financial liabilities
20. Accrued expenses payable
21. Other long-term liabilities
22. Income taxes
23. Accounts and transactions with related parties
24. Equity
25. Share-based payments
26. Earnings per share
27. Commitments and contingencies
28. Financial instruments - Risk management and fair value

28.1 Fuel price risk
28.2 Market risk
28.3 Credit risk
28.4 Interest rate and cash flow risk
28.5 Liquidity risk
28.6 Equity risk management
28.7 Fair value measurement

29. Subsequent events

F-40
F-41
F-41
F-42
F-43
F-43
F-45
F-47
F-50
F-53
F-55
F-55
F-58
F-58
F-58
F-60
F-61
F-63
F-64
F-67
F-68
F-69
F-69
F-70
F-71
F-72
F-72
F-73
F-74
F-74

Report of the Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm 

To the Board of Directors and Shareholders of 
Copa Holdings, S.A. and subsidiaries 

Opinion on the Financial Statements 

We have audited the accompanying consolidated statements of financial position of Copa Holdings, S.A. and subsidiaries as of December 31, 2019 and 
2018, the related consolidated statements of profit or loss, comprehensive income (loss), changes in equity and cash flows for each of the three years in 
the period ended December 31, 2019 and the related notes (collectively referred to as the consolidated financial statements). In our opinion, the 
consolidated financial statements present fairly, in all material respects, the consolidated financial position of the Company at December 31, 2019 and 
2018, and the consolidated results of its operations and its cash flows for each of the three years in the period ended December 31, 2019, in conformity 
with International Financial Reporting Standards, as issued by the International Accounting Standards Board. 

We also have audited, in accordance with the standards of the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (United States) (PCAOB), the Company’s 
internal control over financial reporting as of December 31, 2019, based on criteria established in Internal Control-Integrated Framework issued by the 
Committee of Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission (2013 framework) and our report dated April 8, 2020 expressed an unqualified 
opinion thereon. 

Basis for Opinion 

These consolidated financial statements are the responsibility of the Company’s management. Our responsibility is to express an opinion on the 
Company’s consolidated financial statements based on our audits. We are a public accounting firm registered with the PCAOB and are required to be 
independent with respect to the Company in accordance with the U.S. federal securities laws and the applicable rules and regulations of the Securities 
and Exchange Commission and the PCAOB. 

We conducted our audits in accordance with the standards of the PCAOB. Those standards require that we plan and perform the audit to obtain 
reasonable assurance about whether the financial statements are free of material misstatement, whether due to error or fraud. Our audits included 
performing procedures to assess the risks of material misstatement of the financial statements, whether due to error or fraud, and performing procedures 
that respond to those risks. Such procedures included examining, on a test basis, evidence regarding the amounts and disclosures in the financial 
statements. Our audits also included evaluating the accounting principles used and significant estimates made by management, as well as evaluating the 
overall presentation of the financial statements. We believe that our audits provide a reasonable basis for our opinion. 

Material Uncertainty Related to Going Concern 

The accompanying financial statements have been prepared assuming that the Company will continue as a going concern. As discussed in Note 29 to the 
financial statements, as a result of the effects of COVID-19 global pandemic in March 2020 the Company and the entire aviation industry began to 
experience a significant drop in the demand for air travel, as evidenced by a significant reduction in forward sales over the next few months. In addition, 
several countries have either prohibited flights to their countries or imposed significant travel restrictions. On March 19, 2020 the Republic of Panama 
suspended all international passenger fights in Tocumen International Airport, where the Company’s hub is located, for a period of 30 days in response 
to the virus. As a result of the government’s decision the Company was compelled to suspend all its operations in the near term. These actions, which 
are largely outside the control of the Company, raise substantial doubt about the Company’s ability to continue as a going concern. In response, the 
Company has accessed additional sources of liquidity, deferred capital expenditures, and is seeking various vendor relief. Management’s plans in regard 
to these matters are further described in Note 29. The financial statements do not include any adjustments that might result from the outcome of this 
uncertainty. 

Critical Audit Matters 

The critical audit matters communicated below are matters arising from the current period audit of the financial statements that were communicated or 
required to be communicated to the audit committee and that: (1) relate to accounts or disclosures that are material to the financial statements and 
(2) involved our especially challenging, subjective or complex judgments. The communication of critical audit matters does not alter in any way our 
opinion on the consolidated financial statements, taken as a whole, and we are not, by communicating the critical audit matters below, providing 
separate opinions on the critical audit matters or on the accounts or disclosures to which they relate. 

F-1 

Adoption of IFRS 16 – Leases

Description of the 
Matter

Under IFRS 16 – Leases, the lessee is required to recognize the present value of future lease payments as a right-of-use asset and a 
corresponding financial liability.

The Company adopted IFRS 16 under the full retrospectively approach, which required the initial assessment of all lease contracts 
from the beginning of the contracts and the restatement of each prior reporting period presented. As described in Note 5 to the 
consolidated financial statements, the initial application of IFRS 16 resulted in the recognition of a US$384 million right of use asset 
and a US$397 million lease liability as of December 31, 2017.

Auditing the adoption of IFRS 16 was complex as it involved evaluating significant judgments and assumptions applied by 
Management in calculating the incremental borrowing rate, assessment of the contracts to determine if are lease, determining the 
lease term, assessing the leased aircraft’s return obligations that are not utilization based and the determination of the components of 
the right of use asset.

How We 
Addressed the 
Matter in Our 
Audit

We obtained an understanding, evaluated the design and tested the operating effectiveness of controls over the Company’s IFRS 16 
adoption process including controls over management’s review of the significant assumptions described above, the data inputs used 
by the Company in the calculations of right of use assets and lease liabilities and the recording of the balances in the financial 
statements.

To test the completeness and accuracy of the underlying data used to calculate the right of use asset and lease liability our 
procedures included, among others, comparing the leases’ terms and conditions as per the contracts to the data used in the 
calculation and comparing the leases included in the adoption analysis to the leases included in the total prior period lease expense to 
determine whether any agreements were omitted.

To test the assumptions used in the model our procedures included, among others, testing the componentization of the leased 
aircraft, principally consisting of maintenance related components, and its useful lives by comparing them with the historical 
componentization of owned aircraft in the same fleet and evaluating the basis to determine the costs of the return obligations that are 
not utilization based and the useful lives. Further, we involved our specialists to assist in evaluating management’s methodology for 
determining the incremental borrowing rate (e.g., adjustments for collateral and lease term). We clerically tested the Company’s 
calculations to determine the right-of-use asset and lease liability as of January 1, 2017, December 31, 2017, December 31, 2018 and 
December 31, 2019.

In addition, we compared the Company’s disclosures related to the adoption of IFRS 16 to the disclosure requirements in IAS 8 - 
Accounting Policies, Changes in Accounting Estimates and Errors and in IFRS 16.

Provision for Return Conditions

Description of the 
Matter

As described in Note 4 to the consolidated financial statements, the Company records a provision in accordance IAS 37 – 
Provisions, Contingent Liabilities and Contingent Assets to accrue for the expected cost that will be incurred to return aircrafts to 
their lessors in an agreed-upon condition. These payments are generally owed at the end of the lease term and represent a restoration 
obligation incurred over the lease term

F-2 

How We 
Addressed the 
Matter in Our 
Audit

as the aircraft and engines are utilized. The provision is based on the net present value of the estimated costs of returning the aircraft 
and is accrued during the term of the lease. These costs are reviewed annually and adjusted as appropriate. Changes in estimates 
between the provision balance and the expected costs are adjusted prospectively with any final difference recorded in the period when 
the aircraft is returned. As of December 31, 2019, the Company’s provision for return conditions totaled US$133 million.

Auditing this provision is a Critical Audit Matter because of the subjectivity and complexity of the required assumptions applied in 
the model used by the Company, including estimates of future maintenance costs, determination of an appropriate discount rate, 
application of inflation rates and operational estimates of aircraft utilization. Other key inputs include flight hours and flight cycles, 
route increases, entry of new aircraft, lease extensions and actual aircraft return costs.

We obtained an understanding, evaluated the design and tested the operating effectiveness of controls over the Company’s return 
condition estimation process. We tested controls over management’s review of the expected return cost and discount rate calculation, 
the other significant assumptions and the data inputs outlined above that are used in the calculation.

To test the provision for return condition, we involved a valuation specialist to assist in the review of the discount rate. Our audit 
procedures included, among others, evaluating the methodology and the significant assumptions used, the review of the accuracy and 
completeness of the lease contract population and underlying data used by Management to calculate the return cost. We tested the 
inputs used in the calculation, including historical return costs incurred, and specified return conditions, discount rate, escalation rate 
based on contractual terms, leased aircraft return date and return condition requirements, including minimum flight hours and flight 
cycles (each established in the lease contracts), and the actual utilization reports from the Company’s aircraft maintenance system 
records.

We compared the assumptions used by management to historical data and evaluated the change in the provision for return conditions 
from prior years in relation to changes in return costs and discount rates. In addition, we independently recalculated the discount rate 
as of December 31, 2019 and we compared our results with the Company’s calculations.

Frequent Flyer Deferred Revenue

Description of 
the Matter

The Company’s frequent flyer deferred revenue totaled US$80 million as of December 31, 2019. As described in Note 3 to the 
consolidated financial statements, when a passenger elects to receive Copa’s frequent flyer miles in connection with a flight, the 
Company recognizes a portion of the revenue related to the flight performance obligation when the air transportation is provided and 
defers a portion of the revenue (frequent flyer deferred revenue) representing the value of the related miles as a separate performance 
obligation. To determine the amount of revenue to be deferred, the Company estimates the selling price of miles. The selling price is 
based on an equivalent weighted average ticket value, which incorporates the expected redemption of miles including factors such as 
breakage (i.e., miles sold that will not be redeemed for an award before they expire) and other important redemption attributes such as 
cabin class, geographic region and redemptions on other airlines. The Company also sells miles to non-airline businesses with which 
it has marketing agreements. The portion of the revenue from these contracts that represents a mileage performance obligation is also 
deferred as frequent flyer deferred revenue.

F-3 

How We 
Addressed the 
Matter in Our 
Audit

To estimate breakage the Company uses a statistical model that incorporates the internal historical redemption data as well as 
industry patterns. However, considering Copa’s frequent flyer program was established in 2015, its historical redemption data is 
limited. Changes in the estimated breakage and estimated selling price of miles are applied on a prospective basis. The initial 
estimate of breakage is established at the time the miles are sold, but the expected breakage on outstanding miles is updated annually 
along with the estimated fair value of the miles sold. The Company engages a specialist to assist in the performance of the breakage 
calculation.

Auditing the breakage and fair value of the miles in the frequent flyer program is a Critical Audit Matter due to the complexity of 
the models used and the subjectivity of the assumptions applied as described above.

We obtained an understanding, evaluated the design and tested the controls that address the risks of material misstatement relating to 
the measurement and valuation of the frequent flyer program deferred revenue. We tested controls over management’s review of the 
fair value and breakage calculations including the data inputs used for the calculation.

To test the fair value of miles, our procedures included evaluating the model used by management and the significant assumptions 
applied to determine the average fare, breakage and the number of miles required for each redemption category. We also tested the 
completeness and accuracy of the underlying data used by the Company.

In addition, to test the estimated miles that will expire without use, our procedures included evaluating the methodology used and 
the assumptions applied, including whether the historical redemption data used in the model is representative of future redemption 
behavior. We also evaluated the competence of management’s specialist. To test the completeness and accuracy of the underlying 
data our procedures included a review of the actual redemptions made from program inception to 2019.

Classification of Embraer Fleet as Held for Sale

Description of the 
Matter

As described in Note 13 to the consolidated financial statements, in November 2019, the Company announced its decision to 
accelerate the exit of its remaining 14 Embraer 190 aircraft and related spare parts, expendables and supplies in the near term. As a 
result of this decision the Company reclassified the Embraer fleet and spare parts, expendables and supplies to assets held for sale 
and recognized an impairment of US$89 million upon measuring the assets at the lower of their carrying amount and fair value less 
cost to sell.

The Company determined the fair value of the aircraft (including engines) by reference to values established in a preliminary 
agreement with a potential buyer and confirmed the reasonableness of those amounts by reference to published sources and prior 
sales occurring during 2019. The Company engaged a specialist to assist in the performance of the fair value calculation of the spare 
parts, expendables and supplies.

Auditing the classification of the Embraer fleet as held for sale is a Critical Audit Matter due to the high degree of subjectivity 
applied by the Company to determine whether the assets meet the definition of held for sale and to measure the fair value less cost to 
sell of the aircraft and related spare parts, expendables and supplies.

F-4 

How We 
Addressed the 
Matter in Our 
Audit

We obtained an understanding, evaluated the design and tested the controls that address the risks of material misstatement relating to 
the measurement of the impairment of non-financial assets. We tested controls over management’s review of the fair value and cost 
to sell calculations including the data inputs used for the calculation.

Our substantive audit procedures included, among others, evaluating management’s efforts to complete the sale within one year 
from the date of classification to held for sale, including consideration of the fleet replacement plan. We compared the fair value of 
the aircraft to the preliminary agreement and prices from public sources and previous sales activity. We tested the assumptions 
applied to determine the fair value of the spare parts, expendables and supplies from the range of values determined by 
management’s specialists. We also tested the accuracy and completeness of the underlying data used to determine the impairment 
loss. Further, we evaluated the competence of management’s specialist involved in determining the fair value of the spare parts, 
expendables and supplies.

Ernst & Young Limited Corp. 
A member practice of Ernst & Young Global Limited 

/s/ Ernst & Young Limited Corp. 
We have served as the Company’s auditor since 1999 
Panama City, Republic of Panama 
April 8, 2020 

F-5 

Copa Holdings, S. A. and Subsidiaries 
Consolidated statement of financial position 
As of December, 31 
(In US$ thousands) 

ASSETS
Current assets

Cash and cash equivalents
Investments
Accounts receivable
Expendable parts and supplies
Prepaid expenses
Prepaid income tax
Other currents assets

Asset held for sale

Non-current assets
Investments
Accounts receivable
Prepaid expenses
Property and equipment
Right of use assets
Net pension asset
Intangible assets
Deferred tax assets
Other non-current assets

Total assets

LIABILITIES AND EQUITY
Current liabilities

Current maturities of long-term debt
Current portion of lease liability
Trade, other payables and financial liabilities
Air traffic liability
Frequent flyer deferred revenue
Taxes and interest payable
Accrued expenses payable
Income tax payable

Non-current liabilities
Long-term debt
Lease liability
Frequent flyer deferred revenue
Other long-term liabilities
Deferred tax liabilities

Total liabilities

Equity

Issued capital

Notes

2019

2018
Restated*

2017
Restated*

$

8
9
10,23
11
12

158,732
692,403
129,781
69,100
49,034
1,181
14,206
1,114,437
120,006
1,234,443

134,347
2,139
17,743
2,532,402
290,843
249
108,116
19,215
17,881
3,122,935
$ 4,357,378

17

13

9
10
12
13
14
15
16
22
17

117,238
97,732
133,502
497,374
35,120
51,611
55,373
9,683
997,633

938,183
206,832
45,206
191,221
43,397
1,424,839
2,422,472

$

18
14
19,23
7.2
7.2

20

18
14
7.2
21
22

24

$

156,158
566,200
116,054
86,530
70,237
10,357
14,056
1,019,592
40,330
1,059,922

138,846
1,177
25,637
2,698,131
361,993
5,091
101,168
16,041
33,899
3,381,983
$ 4,441,905

$

311,965
102,452
140,239
471,676
30,342
44,749
47,390
—  
1,148,813

975,283
273,231
37,472
161,572
48,940
1,496,498
2,645,311

$

238,792
705,108
115,641
81,825
41,564
—  
11,701
1,194,631
—  
1,194,631

65,953
2,444
26,130
2,614,216
384,350
3,185
81,115
19,099
31,140
3,227,632
$ 4,422,263

$

298,462
106,950
129,961
477,168
17,197
70,077
61,278
3,700
1,164,793

876,119
290,056
33,115
154,777
52,465
1,406,532
2,571,325

Class A common stock - 33,835,747 (2018 -33,816,276) shares issued 31,337,856 (2018 - 31,257,686) outstanding
Class B common stock - 10,938,125 (2018 - 10,938,125) shares issued and outstanding, no par value

Additional paid in capital
Treasury stock
Retained earnings
Accumulated other comprehensive loss

Total equity

Commitments and contingencies

Total liabilities and equity

* See in note 5 
The accompanying notes are an integral part of these consolidated financial statements.     

F-6 

21,142
7,466
86,135
(136,388) 
1,965,179

(8,628) 

21,087
7,466
80,041
(136,388) 
1,828,615

(4,227) 

21,038
7,466
72,945
(136,388) 
1,889,765

(3,888) 

27

1,934,906
—  
$ 4,357,378

1,796,594
—  
$ 4,441,905

1,850,938
—  
$ 4,422,263

Copa Holdings, S. A. and Subsidiaries 
Consolidated statement of profit or loss 
For the year ended December, 31 
(In US$ thousands) 

Operating revenue

Passenger revenue
Cargo and mail revenue
Other operating revenue

Operating expenses

Fuel
Wages, salaries, benefits and other employees’ expenses
Passenger servicing
Airport facilities and handling charges
Sales and distribution
Maintenance, materials and repairs
Depreciation and amortization
Impairment of non financial assets
Flight operations
Other operating and administrative expenses

Operating profit
Non-operating (expense) income

Finance cost
Finance income
(Loss) Gain on foreign currency fluctuations
Net change in fair value of derivatives
Other non-operating expense

Profit before taxes

Income tax expense
Net profit
Earnings per share

Basic and diluted

* See in note 5 

The accompanying notes are an integral part of these consolidated financial statements.     

F-7 

Notes

2019

2018
Restated*

2017
Restated*

$ 2,612,605
62,460
32,343
2,707,408

$ 2,587,389
62,483
27,755
2,677,627

$ 2,444,251
55,290
22,245
2,521,786

7

696,249
450,439
102,103
181,959
210,623
127,562
282,080
89,344
102,806
118,090
2,361,255
346,153

765,781
443,287
104,346
186,422
210,158
110,710
276,563
188,624
108,437
123,737
2,518,065
159,562

572,746
415,147
99,447
171,040
200,256
131,181
277,523
—  
101,647
114,415
2,083,402
438,384

(57,432) 
24,405
(15,408) 

—  
(4,279) 
(52,714) 
293,439
(46,437) 
247,002

5.81

$

$

(50,825) 
23,628
(9,398) 
—  
(239) 
(36,834) 
122,728
(34,530) 
88,198

(51,096) 
17,939
6,218
2,801
(2,337) 
(26,475) 
411,909

(49,310)
$

362,599

2.08

$

8.55

13,14,16
13

14,18
18

22

26

$

$

Copa Holdings, S. A. and Subsidiaries 
Consolidated statement of comprehensive income 
For the year ended December, 31 
(In US$ thousands) 

Net profit
Other comprehensive loss

Other comprehensive loss not to be reclassified to profit or loss in subsequent periods -

Remeasurement of actuarial loss, net of amortization
Total comprehensive income for the year

* See in note 5 

F-8 

2019
$ 247,002

2018
Restated*
$ 88,198

2017
Restated*
$ 362,599

(4,401) 

(339) 

(2,016) 

$ 242,601

$ 87,859

$ 360,583

Copa Holdings, S. A. and Subsidiaries 
Consolidated statement of changes in equity 
For the year ended December, 31 
(In US$ thousands) 

Common stock
(Non - par value)

Notes Class A

Class B

Issued capital
Class A Class B

Additional
paid in
capital

At January 1, 2017 (restated)

Adjustment on initial application of IFRS 16

5

At January 1, 2017 (restated)

Net profit
Other comprehensive loss
Issuance of stock for employee awards
Share-based compensation expense
Dividends paid
Share options exercised
At December 31, 2017 (restated)

Adjustment on initial application of IFRS 9
Net profit
Other comprehensive loss
Issuance of stock for employee awards
Share-based compensation expense
Dividends paid

At December 31, 2018 (restated)

Net profit
Other comprehensive loss
Issuance of stock for employee awards
Share-based compensation expense
Dividends paid
At December 31, 2019

28.3

15

25
24

25
24

31,112,356
—  
31,112,356
—  
—  
62,224
—  
—  
11,061
31,185,641
—  
—  
—  
72,045
—  
—  
31,257,686
—  
—  
80,170
—  
—  
31,337,856

10,938,125 $ 20,988 $ 7,466 $

—  

—  

—  

10,938,125 $ 20,988 $ 7,466 $

—  
—  
—  
—  
—  
—  

—  
—  
42
—  
—  
8

—  
—  
—  
—  
—  
—  

10,938,125 $ 21,038 $  7,466 $

—  
—  
—  
—  
—  
—  

—  
—  
—  
49
—  
—  

—  
—  
—  
—  
—  
—  

10,938,125 $ 21,087 $ 7,466 $

—  
—  
—  
—  
—  

—  
—  
55
—  
—  

—  
—  
—  
—  
—  

10,938,125 $ 21,142 $ 7,466 $

64,986
—  
64,986
—  
—  
(42) 

7,422
—  
579
 72,945
—  
—  
—  
(49) 

7,145
—  
80,041
—  
—  
(55) 

6,149
—  
86,135

The accompanying notes are an integral part of these consolidated financial statements.     

F-9 

Treasury
stock

Retained
earnings

$(136,388)  $ 1,673,509

—  

(39,551) 

Accumulated
other
comprehensive
income (loss)
$

(1,872) 
—  

Total
equity
1,628,689

(39,551) 

$

$

$

—  
—  
—  
—  
—  
—  

$(136,388)  $ 1,633,958
362,599
—  
—  
—  

(106,792) 

—  
$(136,388)  $ 1,889,765

—  
—  
—  
—  
—  
—  

(1,744) 
88,198
—  
—  
—  

(147,604) 

$(136,388)  $ 1,828,615
247,002
—  
—  
—  

—  
—  
—  
—  
—  

(110,438) 

(1,872)  $ 1,589,138
362,599

—  
(2,016) 
—  
—  
—  
—  

(2,016) 
—  
7,422
(106,792) 

587
(3,888)  $ 1,850,938

—  
—  
(339) 
—  
—  
—  

(1,744) 
88,198

(339) 
—  
7,145
(147,604) 

(4,227)  $ 1,796,594
247,002

—  
(4,401) 
—  
—  
—  

(4,401) 
—  
6,149
(110,438) 

$(136,388)  $ 1,965,179

$

(8,628)  $ 1,934,906

Copa Holdings, S. A. and Subsidiaries 
Consolidated statement of cash flows 
For the year ended December, 31 
(In US$ thousands) 

Operating activities
Net profit
Adjustments for:

Income tax expense
Finance cost
Finance income
Depreciation and amortization
Impairment of non financial assets
Disposal of assets
Impairment of financial assets
Allowance for obsolescence of expendable parts and supplies
Derivative instruments mark to market
Share-based compensation expense
Net foreign exchange differences

Change in:

Accounts receivable
Accounts receivable from related parties
Other current assets
Other assets
Accounts payable
Accounts payable from related parties
Air traffic liability
Frequent flyer deferred revenue
Other liability

Cash from operating activities

Income tax paid
Interest paid
Interest received

Net cash from operating activities

Investing activities

Acquisition of investments
Proceeds from redemption of investments
Advance payments on aircraft purchase contracts and other
Reimbursement of advance payments on aircraft purchase contracts
Acquisition of property and equipment
Proceeds from sale of property and equipment
Acquisition of intangible assets

Net cash used in investing activities

Financing activities

Proceeds from new borrowings
Payments on loans and borrowings
Payment of lease liability
Dividends paid
Proceeds from exercise of share options

Net cash used in financing activities
Net increase (decrease) in cash and cash equivalents

Cash and cash equivalents at January 1

Effect of exchange rate change on cash

Cash and cash equivalents at December 31

* See note 5 

The accompanying notes are an integral part of these consolidated financial statements. 

F-10 

Notes

2019

2018
Restated*

2017
Restated*

$ 247,002

$ 88,198

$ 362,599

18
18
13,14,16

10

25

10

19

16

18
18
14

46,437
57,432
(24,405) 
282,080
89,344
3,850
483
164
—  
6,149
45,086

(17,054) 

76
15,653
20,678
(2,984) 
(587) 

25,698
12,512
48,400
856,014
(42,999) 
(52,234) 
24,102
784,883

(711,045) 
589,602
(75,428) 
48,262
(62,397) 
43,603
(25,465) 
(192,868) 

95,000
(426,827) 
(103,069) 
(110,438) 

—  

(545,334) 
46,681
156,158
(44,107) 

34,530
50,825
(23,628) 
276,563
188,624
3,746
1,409
159
—  
7,145
42,536

(3,150) 
95

(50,241) 
(5,669) 
8,270
2,584
(5,492) 
17,502
(24,515) 
609,491
(38,698) 
(49,317) 
21,537
543,013

(711,840) 
775,504
(216,732) 
152,651
(118,997) 

—  
(30,182) 
(149,596) 

225,000
(401,333) 
(106,254) 
(147,604) 

—  

(430,191) 
(36,774) 
238,792
(45,860) 

$ 158,732

$ 156,158

49,310
51,096
92,260
167,324
—  
3,316
879
182
(2,801) 
7,422
26,581

(3,534) 
181
26,018
(1,012) 
20,313
4,199
77,372
13,630
27,355
922,690
(51,077) 
(50,342) 
14,235
835,506

(854,119) 
567,007
(191,315) 
28,888
(109,945) 

6

(18,681) 
(578,159) 

147,798
(246,349) 
(108,174) 
(106,792) 

587

(312,930) 
(55,583) 
331,687
(37,312) 
238,792

COPA HOLDINGS, S. A. AND SUBSIDIARIES 

Notes to the consolidated financial statements 

1.

Corporate information 

Copa Holdings, S. A. (“the Company”) was incorporated according to the laws of the Republic of Panama on May 6, 1988 with an indefinite duration. 
The Company is a public company listed in the New York Stock Exchange (NYSE) under the symbol CPA since December 14, 2005. The address of its 
registered office is Boulevard Costa del Este, Avenida Principal y Avenida de la Rotonda, Urbanización Costa del Este, Complejo Business Park, Torre 
Norte, Parque Lefevre, Panama City, Republic of Panama. 

These consolidated financial statements comprise the Company and its subsidiaries: Compañía Panameña de Aviación, S. A. (“Copa Airlines”), Oval 
Financial Leasing, Ltd. (“OVAL”), AeroRepública, S. A. (“Copa Colombia”): 

•

•

•

Copa Airlines: the Company’s core operation is incorporated according to the laws of the Republic of Panama and provides international air 
transportation for passengers, cargo and mail, operating from its Panama City hub in the Republic of Panama. 

Copa Colombia: is a Colombian air carrier, incorporated according to the laws of the Republic of Colombia which provides domestic and 
international air transportation for passengers, cargo, and mail. 

Copa Colombia operates “Wingo” a brand under a low-cost business model. Wingo operates administratively and functionally under Copa 
Colombia, with an independent structure for its commercialization, distribution systems and customer service. Wingo currently flights to 22 
destinations, 6 domestic and 16 international, in 10 countries in South and Central America and the Caribbean. 

OVAL: incorporated according to the laws of the British Virgin Islands, it controls the special-purpose entities that have a beneficial interest in the 
majority of the Company’s fleet, which is leased to either Copa Airlines or Copa Colombia. 

The Company currently offers approximately 361 daily scheduled flights to 80 destinations in 33 countries in North, Central and South America and the 
Caribbean, mainly from its Panama City Hub. Additionally, the Company provides passengers with access to flights to more than 200 international 
destinations through codeshare agreements. The Company is part of Star Alliance, the leading global airline network since June 2012. 

The Company has a broad commercial alliance with United Airlines Holdings, Inc. (“United”), which was renewed during May 2016, for another five 
years. This Alliance includes an extensive and expanding code-sharing and technology cooperation. 

Copa Airlines has the loyalty program “ConnectMiles”, designed to strengthen the relationship with its frequent flyers and provide exclusive attention. 
ConnectMiles members are eligible to earn and redeem miles to any of Star Alliance’s 1,300 (unaudited) destinations in 195 countries within 26 airlines 
members (unaudited). 

As of December 31, 2019, the Company operates a fleet of 102 aircraft with an average age of 9.2 years, and consists of 68 Boeing 737-800 Next 
Generation aircraft, 14 Boeing 737-700 Next Generation aircraft, and 14 Embraer E190 aircraft. 

On March 2019, the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) grounded all U.S. registered Boeing 737 MAX aircraft an action that was followed by most 
of the world’s aviation regulators, including Panamanian aviation regulators. The Company’ grounded fleet currently includes 6 Boeing 737 MAX 
aircraft, in addition the Company have 65 aircraft on order (see note 27). 

As of December 31, 2019 the Company has an investment in MAX aircraft (measured at net book value) of $786.2 million, which included deposits 
made for future purchases of $463.3 million. 

F-11

(Continued)

COPA HOLDINGS, S. A. AND SUBSIDIARIES 

Notes to the consolidated financial statements 

The Company is currently in negotiations with Boeing over compensation for the damages that its have suffered as a result of the MAX grounding and 
expect those to be satisfactory resolved in the near term. 

As part of its plan to increase efficiencies, the Company has decided to further accelerate the exit of its Embraer E190 fleet and is planning to sell the 
remaining 14 aircraft over the next year. However, the Company may enter into short term sale leasebacks to meet operating demand. As of 
December 31, 2019 the Embraer E190 fleet was classified as “Asset held for sale” in the consolidated statement of financial position (see note 13). 

The consolidated financial statements for the year ended December 31, 2019 have been authorized for issuance by the Company’s Chief Executive 
Officer and Chief Financial Officer on April 8, 2020. 

2.

Basis of preparation 

Statement of compliance 

The Company’s consolidated financial statements have been prepared in accordance with International Financial Reporting Standards (“IFRS”) as 
issued by the International Accounting Standards Board (“IASB”). 

As used in these notes to consolidated financial statements, the terms “the Company”, “we”, “us”, “our”, and similar terms refer to Copa 
Holdings, S. A. and, unless the context indicates otherwise, its consolidated subsidiaries. 

Basis of measurement 

The consolidated financial statements have been prepared on a historical cost basis, except for the following: 

•

•

•

certain financial assets, certain classes of property, plant and equipment and investment property – measured at fair value 

assets held for sale – measured at fair value less cost of disposal, and 

defined benefit pension plans – plan assets measured at fair value. 

Functional and presentation currency 

These consolidated financial statements are presented in United States dollars (U.S. dollars “$”), which is the Company’s functional currency and 
the legal tender of the Republic of Panama. The Republic of Panama does not issue its own paper currency; instead, the U.S. dollar is used as legal 
currency. 

All values are rounded to the nearest thousand in U.S. dollars ($000), except when otherwise indicated. 

F-12

(Continued)

COPA HOLDINGS, S. A. AND SUBSIDIARIES 

Notes to the consolidated financial statements 

3.

Significant accounting policies 

(a)

Basis of consolidation 

These consolidated financial statements comprise the financial statements of the Company and its subsidiaries. Control is achieved when 
the Company is exposed to, or has right to, variable returns from its involvement with the investee and has the ability to affect those 
returns through its power over the investee. Specifically, the Company controls the investee, when it has: 

•

•

•

power over the investee, 

exposure, or rights to, variable returns from its involvement with the investee, and 

the ability to use its power over the investee to affect its returns. 

The Company reassesses whether or not it controls an investee if facts and circumstances indicate that there are changes to one or more of 
the three elements of control. Consolidation of a subsidiary begins when the Company obtains control over the subsidiary and ceases when 
the Company loses control of the subsidiary. 

The financial statements of the subsidiaries are prepared for the same reporting period as the parent company, using consistent accounting 
policies. All intercompany balances, transactions, and dividends are eliminated in full. 

The following are the significant subsidiaries included in these financial statements: 

Name
Copa Airlines
Copa Colombia
Oval

Country of
Incorporation

Panama
Colombia
British Virgin Islands

Ownership
interest

2019

2018

99% 
99% 
100% 

99% 
99% 
100% 

(b)

Current versus non-current classification 

The Company presents assets and liabilities in the statement of financial position based on current/non-current classification. 

An asset is current when it is: 

•

•

•

expected to be realized or intended to be sold or consumed in the normal operating cycle 

expected to be realized within twelve months after the reporting period, or 

cash or cash equivalent, unless restricted. 

All other assets are classified as non-current. 

A liability is current when: 

•

•

•

it is expected to be settled in the normal operating cycle 

it is due to be settled within twelve months after the reporting period, or 

there is no unconditional right to defer the settlement of the liability for at least twelve months after the reporting period. 

The Company classifies all other liabilities as non-current. 

Deferred tax assets and liabilities are classified as non-current assets and liabilities. 

F-13

(Continued)

COPA HOLDINGS, S. A. AND SUBSIDIARIES 

Notes to the consolidated financial statements 

(c)

Foreign currencies 

The Company’s consolidated financial statements are presented in U.S. dollars, which is the Company’s functional currency. The 
Company determines the functional currency for each entity, and the items included in the financial statements of each entity are measured 
using that functional currency. 

Transactions and balances 

Transactions in foreign currencies are initially recorded by the Company at the respective functional currency spot rates on the date when 
the transaction first qualifies for recognition. 

Monetary assets and liabilities denominated in foreign currencies are translated at the functional currency spot exchange rate at the 
reporting date. Non-monetary items that are measured in terms of historical cost in a foreign currency are translated using the exchange 
rates at the dates of the initial transactions. 

Foreign exchange gains and losses are included in the exchange rate difference line in the consolidated statement of profit or loss for the 
year. 

(d)

Revenue recognition 

Revenue is recognized when control of the goods or services is transferred to the customer at an amount that reflects the consideration to 
which the Company expects to be entitled in exchange for those goods or services. The consideration received or receivable is measured 
taking into account contractually defined terms of payment and excluding taxes or duties. The following specific recognition criteria must 
also be met before revenue is recognized: 

Passenger revenue 

Passenger revenue is primarily composed of passenger ticket sales, frequent flyer miles redeemed and ancillaries revenues associated with 
a passenger’s flight. 

•

Passenger tickets 

Passenger revenue from tickets is recognized when transportation is provided rather than when a ticket is sold. The amount of passenger 
ticket sales, not yet recognized as revenue, is reflected under “Air traffic liability” in the consolidated statement of financial position. 
Refundable and nonrefundable tickets expire after one year from the date of issuance. The Company performs a monthly liability 
evaluation using its historical experience with refundable and nonrefundable expired tickets and other facts. Revenue is recognized for 
tickets that are expected not to be used. A year after the sales is made, actual ticket breakage is removed from “Air Traffic liability” and 
the provision is reversed. 

The Company sells certain tickets with connecting flights with one or more segments operated by its other airline partners. For segments 
operated by other airline partners, the Company has determined that it is acting as an agent on behalf of the other airlines as they are 
responsible for their portion of the contract. The Company, as the agent, reduces its “Air traffic liability” when consideration is remitted to 
those airlines, and recognizes revenue for the net amount representing commission to be retained by the Company for any segments flown 
by other airlines. 

F-14

(Continued)

COPA HOLDINGS, S. A. AND SUBSIDIARIES 

Notes to the consolidated financial statements 

Denied boarding compensation made to customers for voluntarily or involuntarily denied boarding reduces revenue when the voucher is 
issued to the passenger. 

•

Frequent flyer program 

The Company’s frequent flyer program objective, is to reward customer loyalty. Members in this program earn miles for travel on Copa 
Airlines, Star Alliance partners’ airlines. and also by purchasing the goods and services of the Company network of non-airline partners 
and co-branded credit cards. The miles or points earned can be exchanged for flights on Copa or any of other Star Alliance partners’ 
airlines. 

Passenger revenue includes flights redeemed under our frequent flyer program. 

When a passenger elects to receive Copa’s frequent flyer miles in connection with a flight, the Company recognizes a portion of the tickets 
sale as revenue when the air transportation is provided and recognizes a deferred liability (Frequent flyer deferred revenue) for the portion 
of the ticket sale representing the value of the related miles as a separate performance obligation. To determine the amount of revenue to 
be deferred, the Company estimates and allocates the fair value of the miles that were essentially sold along with the airfare, based on a 
weighted average ticket value, which incorporates the expected redemption of miles including factors such as redemption pattern, cabin 
class and geographic region. 

A statistical model that estimates the percentages of points that will not be redeemed before expiration is used to estimate breakage. The 
breakage and the fair value of the miles are reviewed at least annually, and any adjustments are reflected on a prospective basis to 
passenger revenues. 

The Company calculates the short and long-term portion of the frequent flyer deferred revenue, using a model that includes estimates 
based on the members’ redemption rates projected by management due to clients’ behavior. 

Currently, when a member of another carrier frequent flyer program redeems miles on a Copa Airlines flights, those carriers pay to the 
Company a per mile rate. The rates paid by them depend on the class of service, the flight length, and the availability of the reward and is 
included in passenger revenues. 

•

Ancillaries revenues 

Are primarily composed of services performed in conjunction with a passenger’s flight, including administrative fees (such as ticket 
change fees), baggage fees, and other ticket-related fees. These ancillary fees are part of the travel performance obligation and, as such, are 
recognized as passenger revenue when the travel occurs. 

Cargo and mail revenue 

Cargo and mail revenue are recognized when the Company provides and completes the shipping services as requested by the client and the 
risks on the merchandise and goods are transferred. 

F-15

(Continued)

COPA HOLDINGS, S. A. AND SUBSIDIARIES 

Notes to the consolidated financial statements 

Other operating revenue 

Other operating revenue includes revenue associated with the marketing component of the frequent flyer program. This revenue is 
comprised of the marketing component of mileage sales to co-branded card, other partners and other marketing related payments. 

The Company sells miles to non-airline businesses with which it has marketing agreements. The main contracts to sell miles are related to 
co-branded credit card relationships with major banks in the region. The Company determined the selling prices of miles according to a 
method which allocates consideration based upon the relative selling price of the deliverables. The relative selling price of the deliverables 
is determined based upon the estimated standalone selling prices of each deliverable in the arrangement and is allocated between the miles 
sold to the passenger (as described above) and the marketing elements. Revenue allocated to the performance obligations related to, 
marketing components, is recorded in other operating revenue when miles are delivered. 

The remaining amounts included within other revenue is related to lease income, advertising and vacation-related services. 

(e)

Cash and cash equivalents 

Cash and cash equivalents in the statement of financial position, comprise cash on hand and in banks, money market accounts, and time 
deposits with original maturities of three months or less from the date of purchase. 

For the purpose of the consolidated statement of cash flows, cash and cash equivalents consist of cash net of outstanding bank overdrafts, 
if any. The Company has elected to present the statement of cash flows using the indirect method. 

(f)

Financial instruments 

A financial instrument is any contract that gives rise to a financial asset of one entity and a financial liability or equity instrument of 
another entity. 

Financial assets 

The Company’s financial assets include cash and cash equivalents, short and long-term investments and accounts receivable. 

(i)

Initial recognition and measurement 

Financial assets are classified, at initial recognition, as subsequently measured at amortized cost, fair value through other comprehensive 
income (OCI), and fair value through profit or loss. 

The classification of financial assets at initial recognition depends on the financial assets contractual cash flow characteristics and the 
Company’s business model for managing them. With the exception of accounts receivables that do not contain a significant financing 
component or for which the Company has applied the practical expedient, the Company initially measures a financial asset at its fair value 
plus, in the case of a financial asset not at fair value through profit or loss, transaction costs. Accounts receivables that do not contain a 
significant financing component or for which the Company has applied the practical expedient are measured at the transaction price. 

F-16

(Continued)

COPA HOLDINGS, S. A. AND SUBSIDIARIES 

Notes to the consolidated financial statements 

In order for a financial asset to be classified and measured at amortized cost or fair value through OCI, it needs to give rise to cash flows 
that are ‘solely payments of principal and interest’ (SPPI) on the principal amount outstanding. This assessment is referred to as the SPPI 
test and is performed at an instrument level. 

The Company’s business model for managing financial assets refers to how it manages its financial assets in order to generate cash flows. 
The business model determines whether cash flows will result from collecting contractual cash flows, selling the financial assets, or both. 

All financial assets are recognized on the trade date, which is the date on which the Company becomes a party to the contractual 
provisions of an instrument. 

(ii)

Subsequent measurement 

For purposes of subsequent measurement, financial assets are classified in four categories: 

•

•

•

•

Financial assets at amortized cost (debt instruments) 

Financial assets at fair value through OCI with recycling of cumulative gains and losses (debt instruments) 

Financial assets designated at fair value through OCI with no recycling of cumulative gains and losses upon derecognition (equity 
instruments) 

Financial assets at fair value through profit or loss 

Financial assets at amortized cost 

This category is the most relevant to the Company. The Company measures financial assets at amortized cost if both of the following 
conditions are met: 

•

•

The financial asset is held within a business model with the objective to hold financial assets in order to collect contractual cash 
flows; and 

The contractual terms of the financial asset give rise on specified dates to cash flows that are solely payments of principal and 
interest on the principal amount outstanding. 

Financial assets at amortized cost are subsequently measured using the effective interest rate (EIR) method and are subject to impairment. 
Gains and losses are recognized in profit or loss when the asset is derecognized, modified or impaired. 

The Company’s financial assets at amortized cost included the Company’s investments and its receivables. 

The Company invests in short-term deposits and bonds with original maturities of more than three months but less than one year, and 
invests in long-term deposits and bonds with maturities greater than one year. These investments are classified as short and long-term 
investments, respectively, in the accompanying consolidated statement of financial position. 

Accounts receivable are non-derivative financial assets with fixed or determinable payments that are not quoted in an active market. These 
financial instruments are initially recognized and carried at the original invoice amount since recognition of interest under the amortized 
cost would be immaterial less a provision for impairment. 

F-17

(Continued)

COPA HOLDINGS, S. A. AND SUBSIDIARIES 

Notes to the consolidated financial statements 

Financial assets at fair value through OCI 

The Company measures debt instruments at fair value through OCI if both of the following conditions are met: 

•

•

The financial asset is held within a business model with the objective of both holding to collect contractual cash flows and 
selling; and 

The contractual terms of the financial asset give rise on specified dates to cash flows that are solely payments of principal 
and interest on the principal amount outstanding 

For debt instruments at fair value through OCI, interest income, foreign exchange revaluation and impairment losses or reversals are 
recognized in the statement of profit or loss and computed in the same manner as for financial assets measured at amortized cost. The 
remaining fair value changes are recognized in OCI. Upon derecognition, the cumulative fair value change recognized in OCI is recycled 
to profit or loss. 

The Company currently does not have assets classified under this category. 

Financial assets designated at fair value through OCI 

Upon initial recognition, the Company may elect to classify irrevocably its equity investments as equity instruments designated at fair 
value through OCI when they meet the definition of equity under IAS 32 Financial Instruments: Presentation and are not held for trading. 
The classification is determined on an instrument-by-instrument basis. 

Gains and losses on these financial assets are never recycled to profit or loss. Dividends are recognized as other income in the statement of 
profit or loss when the right of payment has been established, except when the Company benefits from such proceeds as a recovery of part 
of the cost of the financial asset, in which case, such gains are recorded in OCI. Equity instruments designated at fair value through OCI 
are not subject to impairment assessment. 

The Company currently does not have assets classified under this category. 

Financial assets at fair value through profit or loss 

Financial assets at fair value through profit or loss include financial assets held for trading, financial assets designated upon initial 
recognition at fair value through profit or loss, or financial assets mandatorily required to be measured at fair value. Financial assets are 
classified as held for trading if they are acquired for the purpose of selling or repurchasing in the near term. Derivatives, including 
separated embedded derivatives, are also classified as held for trading unless they are designated as effective hedging instruments. 
Financial assets with cash flows that are not solely payments of principal and interest are classified and measured at fair value through 
profit or loss, irrespective of the business model. Notwithstanding the criteria for debt instruments to be classified at amortized cost or at 
fair value through OCI, as described above, debt instruments may be designated at fair value through profit or loss on initial recognition if 
doing so eliminates, or significantly reduces, an accounting mismatch. 

Financial assets at fair value through profit or loss are carried in the statement of financial position at fair value with net changes in fair 
value recognized in the statement of profit or loss. 

The Company currently does not have assets classified under this category. 

F-18

(Continued)

COPA HOLDINGS, S. A. AND SUBSIDIARIES 

Notes to the consolidated financial statements 

(iii) Derecognition 

A financial asset is derecognized when: 

•

•

the rights to receive cash flows from the asset have expired, or 

the Company has transferred its rights to receive cash flows from the asset or has assumed an obligation to pay the received cash 
flows in full without material delay to a third party under a “pass-through” arrangement, and either (a) the Company has transferred 
substantially all the risks and rewards of the asset, or (b) the Company has neither transferred nor retained substantially all the risks 
and rewards of the asset, but has transferred control of the asset. 

When the Company has transferred its rights to receive cash flows from an asset or has entered into a pass-through arrangement, it 
evaluates, if and to what extent, it has retained the risks and rewards of ownership. When it has neither transferred nor retained 
substantially all the risks and rewards of the asset nor transferred control of the asset, the asset is recognized to the extent of the 
Company’s continuing involvement in the asset. In that case, the Company also recognizes an associated liability. The transferred asset 
and the associated liability are measured on a basis that reflects the rights and obligations that the Company has retained. 

(iv)

Impairment of financial assets 

The Company recognizes an allowance for expected credit losses (ECLs) on financial asset measured at amortized cost. Loss allowance 
for financial assets are deducted from the gross carrying amount on the assets. 

ECLs are based on the difference between the contractual cash flows due in accordance with the contract and all the cash flows that the 
Company expects to receive, discounted at an approximation of the original effective interest rate. 

ECLs are recognized in two stages. For credit exposures for which there has not been a significant increase in credit risk since initial 
recognition, ECLs are provided for credit losses that result from default events that are possible within the next 12-months (a 12-month 
ECL). For those credit exposures for which there has been a significant increase in credit risk since initial recognition, a loss allowance is 
required for credit losses expected over the remaining life of the exposure, irrespective of the timing of the default (a lifetime ECL). 

Both, lifetime ECLs and 12-month ECLs, are calculated on either an individual basis or a collective basis, depending on the nature of the 
underlying portfolio of financial instruments. 

The Company has established a policy to perform an assessment, at the end of each quarterly reporting period, of whether a financial 
instrument’s credit risk has increased significantly since initial recognition, by considering the change in the risk of default occurring over 
the remaining life of the financial instrument. 

For accounts receivables the Company applies a simplified approach in calculating ECLs. Therefore, the Company does not track changes 
in credit risk, but instead recognizes a loss allowance based on lifetime ECLs at each quarterly reporting date. 

The Company has established a provision matrix to measure ECLs. Loss rates are calculated using a ‘roll rate’ method based on the 
probability of a receivable progressing through successive stages of delinquency to write-off. To measure the ECLs, trade receivables have 
been grouped based on shared credit risk characteristics and the day past due. 

F-19

(Continued)

COPA HOLDINGS, S. A. AND SUBSIDIARIES 

Notes to the consolidated financial statements 

Loss rates are based on actual credit loss experience over the last 12 months and adjusted for forward-looking factors specific to the 
debtors and the economic environment over the expected life of the receivables. 

A financial asset is written off when there is no reasonable expectation of recovering the contractual cash flows. The Company considers 
that there are no realistic prospects of recovery of the asset if any of the following indicators are present: 

•

•

•

•

the debtor is in a state of permanent disability 

the Company has exhausted all legal and/or administrative recourse 

where the account exceeds one year without decreases 

when there are not documents that establishing the debt 

Losses arising from impairment are recognized under “Other operating and administrative expenses” in the consolidated statement of 
profit or loss. 

Financial liabilities 

(i)

Initial recognition and measurement 

Financial liabilities are classified, at initial recognition, as financial liabilities at fair value through profit or loss, loans and borrowings, 
payables, or derivatives designated as hedging instruments in an effective hedge, as appropriate. 

All financial liabilities are recognized initially at fair value and, in the case of loans and borrowings and payables, net of directly 
attributable transaction costs. 

The Company’s financial liabilities include trade and other payables and loans and borrowings including bank overdrafts. 

(ii)

Subsequent measurement 

The measurement of financial liabilities depends on their classification as described below: 

•

Debt 

Subsequent to initial recognition, all borrowings and loans are measured at amortized cost using the EIR method. Gains and losses are 
recognized in the consolidated statement of profit or loss when the liabilities are derecognized as well as through the EIR amortization 
process. 

Amortized cost is calculated by taking into account any discount or premium on acquisition and fees or costs that are an integral part of the 
EIR. The EIR amortization is included under finance cost in the consolidated statement of profit or loss. 

F-20

(Continued)

COPA HOLDINGS, S. A. AND SUBSIDIARIES 

Notes to the consolidated financial statements 

(iii)

Derecognition 

Financial liabilities are derecognized when the obligation under the liability is discharged, cancelled, or expire. When an existing 
financial liability is replaced by another from the same lender on substantially different terms, or the terms of an existing liability are 
substantially modified, such an exchange or modification is treated as a derecognition of the original liability and the recognition of 
a new liability, and the difference in the respective carrying amounts is recognized in the consolidated statement of profit or loss. 

Offsetting of financial instruments 

Financial assets and financial liabilities are offset and the net amount presented in the consolidated statement of financial position 
when, and only when, the Company has a legally enforceable right to set off the recognized amounts and it intends either to settle 
them on a net basis or to realize the asset and settle the liability simultaneously. The legally enforceable right must not be contingent 
on future events and must be enforceable in the ordinary course of business and in the event of default, insolvency or bankruptcy of 
the Company or the counterparty. 

Derivative financial instruments and hedging activities 

Derivative instruments are initially recognized at fair value on the date on which a derivative contract is entered into and are 
subsequently remeasured at their fair value. 

Derivatives are carried as financial assets when the fair value results in a right to the Company and as financial liabilities when the 
fair value results in an obligation. The accounting for changes in value depends on whether the derivative is designated as a hedging 
instrument, and if so, the classification of the hedge. 

For hedge accounting purposes, hedges are classified into: 

•

•

•

Fair value hedges when hedging the exposure to changes in the fair value of a recognized asset or liability or an 
unrecognized firm commitment 

Cash flow hedges when hedging the exposure to variability in cash flows that is either attributable to a particular risk 
associated with a recognized asset or liability or a highly probable forecast transaction or the foreign currency risk in an 
unrecognized firm commitment 

hedges of a net investment in a foreign operation. 

At the inception of a hedge relationship, the Company formally designates and documents the hedge relationship to which it wishes 
to apply hedge accounting and the risk management objective and strategy for undertaking the hedge. 

The documentation includes identification of the hedging instrument, the hedged item, the nature of the risk being hedged and how 
the Company will assess whether the hedging relationship meets the hedge effectiveness requirements. A hedging relationship 
qualifies for hedge accounting if it meets all of the following effectiveness requirements: 

•

•

There is ‘an economic relationship’ between the hedged item and the hedging instrument. 

The effect of credit risk does not ‘dominate the value changes’ that result from that economic relationship. 

F-21

(Continued)

COPA HOLDINGS, S. A. AND SUBSIDIARIES 

Notes to the consolidated financial statements 

•

The hedge ratio of the hedging relationship is the same as that resulting from the quantity of the hedged item that the 
Company actually hedges and the quantity of the hedging instrument that the Company actually uses to hedge that quantity 
of hedged item. 

As of December 31, 2019 and 2018, the Company does not have financial instruments designated under hedge accounting. 

(g) Impairment of non - financial assets 

The Company assesses at each reporting date whether there is an indication that an asset or its cash-generating unit (CGU) may be 
impaired. If any such indication exists, or when annual impairment testing for an asset is required, the Company estimates the asset’s 
or CGU’s recoverable amount. The recoverable amount is the higher of an asset’s or its CGU’s fair value less costs to sell and its 
value in use. The recoverable amount is determined for an individual asset, unless the asset does not generate cash inflows that are 
largely independent of those from other assets or group of assets. When the carrying amount of an asset or CGU exceeds its 
recoverable amount, the asset is considered impaired and is written down to its recoverable amount. 

In assessing value in use, the estimated future cash flows are discounted to their present value using a pre-tax discount rate that 
reflects current market assessments of the time value of money and the risks specific to the asset for which the estimates of future 
cash flows have not been adjusted. 

Impairment losses of continuing operations, including impairment on inventories, are recognized under “Impairment of non financial 
assets” in the consolidated statement of profit or loss. 

For assets, excluding goodwill, an assessment is made at each reporting date to determine whether there is any indication that 
previously recognized impairment losses no longer exist or may have decreased. If such indication exists, the Company estimates 
the asset’s or CGU’s recoverable amount. 

A previously recognized impairment loss is reversed only if there has been a change in the assumptions used to determine the asset’s 
recoverable amount since the last impairment loss was recognized. The reversal is limited so that the carrying amount of the asset 
does not exceed its recoverable amount, nor exceed the carrying amount that would have been determined, net of depreciation, had 
no impairment loss been recognized for the asset in prior years. Such reversal is recognized in the statement of profit or loss. 

(h) Expendable parts and supplies 

Expendable parts and supplies for flight equipment are carried at the lower of the average acquisition cost or replacement cost, and 
are expensed when used in operations. The replacement cost is the estimated purchase price in the ordinary course of business. 

(i) Passenger traffic commissions 

Passenger traffic commissions are recognized as expense when transportation is provided and the related revenue is recognized. 
Passenger traffic commissions paid but not yet recognized as expense are included under “Prepaid expenses” in the accompanying 
consolidated statement of financial position. 

F-22

(Continued)

COPA HOLDINGS, S. A. AND SUBSIDIARIES 

Notes to the consolidated financial statements 

(j) Property and equipment 

Property and equipment comprise mainly airframe, engines, and other related flight equipment. All property and equipment is stated 
at cost, net of accumulated depreciation and accumulated impairment losses, if any. 

When a major maintenance inspection or overhaul cost is embedded in the initial purchase cost of an aircraft, the Company 
estimates the carrying amount of the component. These initial built-in maintenance assets are depreciated over the estimated time 
period until the first maintenance event is performed. The cost of major maintenance events completed after the aircraft acquisition 
are capitalized and depreciated over the estimated time period until the next major maintenance event. The remaining value of the 
previously capitalized component if any, is charged to expense upon completion of the subsequent maintenance event. 

The Company recognizes the depreciation on a straight-line basis, which for some aircraft components is akin to depreciation based 
on use, over the estimated useful life of the assets. Depreciation is recognized in the consolidated statement of profit or loss from the 
date the property, and equipment is installed and ready for use. 

Property and equipment
Flight equipment (*)

Airframe and engines
Major maintenance events

Ramp and miscellaneous
Ground equipment

Furniture, fixture, equipment and other
Leasehold improvements

Estimate useful life (years)

27
3-16

10
5-10
Lesser of remaining lease term and estimated useful
life of the leasehold improvement

Residual
Value

15% 

—  

—  
—  

—  

(*)

Excluding the Embraer 190 fleet, see note 13. 

An item of property and equipment and any significant part initially recognized is derecognized upon disposal or when no future 
economic benefits are expected from its use or disposal. Any gain or loss arising on derecognition of the asset (calculated as the 
difference between the net disposal proceeds and the carrying amount of the asset) is included in the statement of profit or loss when 
the asset is derecognized. 

The costs of major maintenance events for leased aircraft are capitalized and depreciated over the shorter of the scheduled usage 
period to the next major inspection event or the remaining life of lease term (as appropriate), the remaining value of the previously 
capitalized maintenance or the right-of-use asset (“ROU”) component if any, is charged to expense upon completion of the 
subsequent maintenance event. 

The residual values, useful life, and methods of depreciation of property and equipment are reviewed at each financial year-end and 
adjusted prospectively, if appropriate. 

The land owned by the Company is recognized at cost less any accumulated impairment. 

F-23

(Continued)

COPA HOLDINGS, S. A. AND SUBSIDIARIES 

Notes to the consolidated financial statements 

(k) Leases 

At inception of a contract, the Company assesses whether the contract is, or contains, a lease. A contract is, or contains, a lease if the 
contract conveys the right to control the use of an identified asset for a period of time in exchange for consideration. To assess 
whether a contract, conveys the right to control the use of an identified asset, the Company assesses whether: 

•

•

The Company has the right to obtain substantially all of the economic benefits from use of the identified asset; and 

The Company has the right to direct the use of the identified asset. 

The Company as a lessee 

At the commencement date, the Company recognizes a ROU and a lease liability. 

The ROU is measured at cost and comprises: 

•

•

•

•

the amount of the initial measurement of the lease liability, 

any lease payments made at or before the commencement date, less any lease incentives received; 

any initial direct costs incurred by the lessee; and 

an estimate of costs to be incurred by the lessee in dismantling and removing the underlying asset, restoring the site on 
which it is located or restoring the underlying asset to the condition required by the terms and conditions of the lease, 
unless those costs are incurred to produce inventories. The Company incurs the obligation for those costs either at the 
commencement date or as a consequence of having used the underlying asset during a particular period. 

The ROU is subsequently depreciated using the straight line method from the commencement date to the earlier of the end of the 
useful life of the ROU or component, or lease term. The estimated useful life of ROU is determined of the same basis of owned 
property and equipment. 

At inception or on reassessment of a contract that contains a lease component, the Company allocates the consideration in the 
contract to each lease component on the basis of their relative stand-alone prices. In this regard, the Company applies the following, 
by class of underlying asset: 

•

•

for the leases of real estate, the Company has elected to separate non-lease components. 

for aircraft leases, the value of major maintenance inspection or overhaul embedded in the aircraft is recognized as a 
separated component and is depreciated over the estimated time period until the first maintenance event is performed or the 
remaining life of lease term (as appropriate) which ever is shorter. 

The lease liability, is initially measured at the present value of the lease payments that are not paid at that date, discounted using the 
interest rate implicit in the lease, if that rate can be readily determined or the lessee’s incremental borrowing rate. 

F-24

(Continued)

COPA HOLDINGS, S. A. AND SUBSIDIARIES 

Notes to the consolidated financial statements 

The lease payments included in the measurement of the lease liability comprise: 

•

•

•

•

•

fixed payments (including in-substance fixed payments), less any lease incentives receivable; 

variable lease payments that depend on an index or a rate, initially measured using the index or rate as at the 
commencement date; 

amounts expected to be payable by the lessee under residual value guarantees; 

the exercise price of a purchase option if the lessee is reasonably certain to exercise that option; and 

payments of penalties for terminating the lease, if the lease term reflects the lessee exercising an option to terminate the 
lease. 

Variable lease payments that do not depend on an index or a rate are recognized as lease expenses in the period in which the event or 
condition that triggers the payment occurs, under “Other operating and administrative expenses” in the consolidated statement of 
profit or loss. 

The lease liability is measured at amortized cost using the effective interest method. It is remeasured when there is a change in future 
lease payments arising from a change in an index or a rate, if there is a change in the Company’s estimated amount expected to be 
payable under a residual value guarantee or if the Company changes its assessment of whether it will exercise a purchase, extension 
or termination option. 

When the lease liability is remeasured in this way, a corresponding adjustment is made to the carrying amount of the ROU, or is 
recorded in profit or loss if the carrying amount of ROU has been reduced to zero. 

Financing arrangements where is certain that the asset will be purchased at the end of the lease term, are “in substance purchases” 
and not leases, in those cases, the related liability is considered a financial liability under IFRS 9 and the asset, as property and 
equipment, according to IAS 16. 

The Company has elected not to recognize ROU and lease liabilities for short-term leases that have a lease term of 12 months or less 
and leases of low value assets. The Company recognizes the lease payments associated with these leases as an expense on a straight-
line basis over the lease term as “Other operating and administrative expenses” in the consolidated statement of profit or loss. 

The Company as lessor 

When assets are leased under operating leases, the asset is included in the consolidated statement of financial position according to 
its nature. Revenue from operating leases is recognized over the lease term on a straight-line basis as part of other operating revenue. 

Initial direct costs incurred by the Company in negotiating and arranging an operating lease are added to the carrying amount of the 
leased asset and recognized as an expense over the lease term on the same basis as the related lease income. 

F-25

(Continued)

COPA HOLDINGS, S. A. AND SUBSIDIARIES 

Notes to the consolidated financial statements 

(l) Intangible assets 

Goodwill 

Goodwill is initially measured at cost, being the excess of the aggregate of the consideration transferred over the net identifiable 
assets acquired and liabilities assumed of the acquired subsidiary at the date of acquisition. 

After initial recognition, goodwill is measured at cost less any accumulated impairment losses. For the purpose of impairment 
testing, goodwill acquired in a business combination is, from the acquisition date, allocated to each of the Company’s CGU or group 
of CGU’s that are expected to benefit from the combination, irrespective of whether other assets or liabilities of the acquiree are 
assigned to those units. When the recoverable amount of the CGU is less than its carrying amount, an impairment loss is recognized. 
Impairment losses relating to goodwill cannot be reversed in future periods. 

Other intangible assets 

Intangible assets acquired separately are measured on initial recognition at cost. The cost of intangible assets acquired in a business 
combination is their fair value at the date of acquisition. Following initial recognition, intangible assets are carried at cost less any 
accumulated amortization and accumulated impairment losses. Internally generated intangible assets, excluding capitalized 
development costs, are not capitalized and the expenditure is reflected in the consolidated statement of profit or loss in the year in 
which the expenditure is incurred. 

The useful life of intangible assets are assessed as either finite or indefinite. 

Intangible assets with finite lives are amortized over their useful economic life and assessed for impairment whenever there is an 
indication that the intangible asset may be impaired. The amortization period and amortization method for an intangible asset with a 
finite useful life are reviewed at least at the end of each reporting period. Changes in the expected useful life or the expected pattern 
of consumption of future economic benefits embodied in the asset are considered to modify the amortization period or method, as 
appropriate, and are treated as changes in accounting estimates. The amortization expense on intangible assets with finite life is 
recognized in the consolidated statement of profit or loss as the expense category that is consistent with the function of the intangible 
assets. 

Intangible assets with indefinite useful life are not amortized but are tested for impairment at least annually, either individually or at 
the CGU level. The assessment of indefinite life is reviewed annually to determine whether the indefinite life continues to be 
supportable. If not, the change in useful life from indefinite to finite is made on a prospective basis. 

Gains and losses arising from the derecognition of an intangible asset are measured as the difference between the net disposal 
proceeds and the carrying amount of the asset and are recognized in the consolidated statement of profit or loss when the asset is 
derecognized. 

The Company’s intangible assets and the policies applied are summarized as follows: 

•

Licenses and software rights 

F-26

(Continued)

COPA HOLDINGS, S. A. AND SUBSIDIARIES 

Notes to the consolidated financial statements 

Acquired computer software licenses are capitalized on the basis of the costs incurred to acquire and bring to use the specific 
software. These costs are amortized using the straight-line method over their estimated useful life (from three to eight years) and the 
amortization is recognized in the consolidated statement of profit or loss. Costs associated with maintaining computer software 
programs are recognized as an expense as incurred. 

Costs that are directly associated with the production of identifiable and unique software products controlled by the Company and 
that are estimated to generate economic benefits exceeding costs beyond one year, are recognized as intangible assets. Direct costs 
include the software development employee costs and an appropriate portion of relevant overheads. These costs are amortized using 
the straight-line method over their estimated useful life (from five to fifteen years). 

(m) Taxes 

Income tax expense 

Income tax expense comprises current and deferred tax. It is recognized in profit or loss except when related to the items recognized 
directly in equity or in other comprehensive income (“OCI”). 

•

Current income tax 

The Company pays taxes in the Republic of Panama and in other countries in which it operates, based on regulations in effect in 
each respective country. 

Revenue arises principally from foreign operations, and according to the Panamanian Tax Code, these foreign operations are not 
subject to income tax in Panama. 

The Panamanian tax code for the airline industry states that tax is based on net income earned for passenger traffic with origin or 
final destination in the Republic of Panama. The applicable tax rate is currently 25.0%. Dividends from the Panamanian subsidiaries, 
are separately subject to a 10% withholding tax on the portion attributable to Panamanian sourced income and a 5% withholding tax 
on the portion attributable to foreign sourced income. 

The Company is also subject to local tax regulations in each of the other jurisdictions where it operates, the great majority of which 
are related to income taxes. 

Current income tax assets and liabilities are measured at the amount expected to be paid to the taxation authorities. The tax rates and 
tax laws used to compute the amount are those that are enacted or substantively enacted, at the reporting date in the countries where 
the Company operates and generates taxable income. 

Management periodically evaluates positions taken in the tax returns with respect to situations in which applicable tax regulations 
are subject to interpretation and establishes provisions when appropriate. 

•

Deferred tax 

Deferred tax is calculated using the liability method on temporary differences between the tax bases of assets and liabilities and their 
carrying amounts for financial reporting purposes at the reporting date. 

F-27

(Continued)

COPA HOLDINGS, S. A. AND SUBSIDIARIES 

Notes to the consolidated financial statements 

Deferred tax assets are recognized for all deductible temporary differences, the carry forward of unused tax credits and unused tax 
losses. Deferred tax assets are recognized to the extent that it is probable that taxable profit will be available against which the 
deductible temporary differences and the carry forward of unused tax credits and unused tax losses can be utilized, except: 

•

•

when the deferred tax asset relating to the deductible temporary difference arises from initial recognition of an asset or 
liability in a transaction that is not a business combination and, at the time of the transaction, affects neither accounting 
profit nor taxable profit or loss. 

in respect of deductible temporary differences associated with investments in subsidiaries, associates, and interests in joint 
ventures, deferred tax assets are recognized only to the extent that it is probable that the temporary differences will reverse 
in the foreseeable future and taxable profit will be available against which the temporary differences can be utilized. 

The carrying amount of deferred tax assets is reviewed at each reporting date and reduced to the extent that it is no longer probable 
that sufficient taxable profit will be available to allow all or part of the deferred tax asset to be utilized. Unrecognized deferred tax 
assets are reassessed at each reporting date and are recognized to the extent that it has become probable that future taxable profits 
will allow the deferred tax asset to be recovered. 

Deferred tax liabilities are recognized for all taxable temporary differences, except: 

•

•

when the deferred tax liability arises from the initial recognition of goodwill or an asset or liability in a transaction that is 
not a business combination and, at the time of the transaction, affects neither accounting profit nor taxable profit or loss. 

in respect of taxable temporary differences associated with investments in subsidiaries, associates, and interests in joint 
ventures, when the timing of the reversal of the temporary differences can be controlled and it is probable that the 
temporary differences will not reverse in the foreseeable future. 

Deferred tax assets and liabilities are measured at the tax rates that are expected to apply in the year when the asset is realized or the 
liability settled, based on tax rates (and tax laws) that have been enacted or substantively enacted at the reporting date. 

Deferred tax relating to items recognized outside profit or loss is recognized outside profit or loss. Deferred tax items are recognized 
in correlation to the underlying transaction either in other comprehensive income or directly in equity. 

Deferred tax assets and deferred tax liabilities are offset, if a legally enforceable right exists to set off current tax assets against 
current income tax liabilities and the deferred taxes relate to the same taxable entity and the same taxation authority. 

Ticket taxes 

The Company is required to charge certain taxes and fees on its passenger tickets. These taxes and fees include transportation taxes, 
airport passenger facility charges, and certain governmentally imposed airport arrival and departure taxes. These taxes and fees are 
legal assessments on the customer. Since the Company has a legal obligation to act as a collection agent with respect to these taxes 
and fees, such amounts are not include in passenger revenue. The Company records a liability when these amounts are collected and 
derecognizes the liability when payments are made to the applicable government agency or operating carrier. 

F-28

(Continued)

COPA HOLDINGS, S. A. AND SUBSIDIARIES 

Notes to the consolidated financial statements 

(n) Borrowing costs 

Borrowing costs directly attributable to the acquisition, construction, or production of any qualifying asset, that necessarily takes a 
substantial period of time to get ready for its intended use or sale, are capitalized as part of the cost of the asset during that period of 
time. 

Other borrowing costs are expensed in the period in which they occur. Borrowing costs consist of interest and other costs that an 
entity incurs in connection with the borrowing of funds. 

(o) Provisions 

Provisions for costs, including restitution, restructuring and legal claims and assessments are recognized when: 

•

•

•

the Company has a present legal or constructive obligation as a result of past events; 

it is probable that an outflow of resources embodying economic benefits will be required to settle the obligation; and 

the amount of obligation can be reliably estimated. 

For aircraft leases, the Company is contractually obliged to return the aircraft in a defined condition. The Company accrues a 
provision for return conditions which are based on the usage of leased aircraft throughout the duration of the lease. 

Return conditions are based on the net present value of the estimated costs of returning the aircraft and are recognized in the 
consolidated statement of profit or loss under “Maintenance, materials and repairs”. These costs are reviewed annually and 
adjustments, if any are recognized prospectively over the remaining lease term. 

(p) Employee benefits 

Defined benefit plan 

The Company sponsors a defined benefit plan, which requires contributions to be made to a separately administered fund. 

The calculation of the defined benefit obligation is performed annually by a qualified actuary using the projected unit credit actuarial 
cost method (PUC). 

Remeasurements of the net defined benefit liability, which comprises actuarial gains and losses, the return on plan assets and the 
effect of the asset ceiling (if any), are recognized immediately in other comprehensive income. The Company determines the net 
interest by applying the discount rate to the net defined benefit liability or asset. The Company recognizes the following changes in 
the net defined benefit obligation in the consolidated statement of profit or loss. 

Share-based payments 

Employees (including senior executives) of the Company receive compensation in the form of share-based payment transactions, 
whereby employees render services as consideration for equity instruments (equity-settled transactions). 

The cost of equity-settled transactions is recognized, together with a corresponding increase in additional paid in capital in equity, 
over the period in which the performance and/or service conditions are fulfilled. The cumulative expense recognized for equity-
settled transactions at each reporting date until the vesting date reflects the extent to which the vesting period has expired and 

F-29

(Continued)

COPA HOLDINGS, S. A. AND SUBSIDIARIES 

Notes to the consolidated financial statements 

the Company’s best estimate of the number of equity instruments that will ultimately vest. Expense or credit for a period represents 
the movement in cumulative expense recognized as of the beginning and end of that period and is recognized under “Wages, 
salaries, benefits and other employees’ expenses” expense in the consolidated statement of profit or loss (note 25). 

Termination benefits 

Termination benefits are payable when employment is terminated by the Company before the normal retirement date, or whenever 
an employee accepts voluntary redundancy in exchange for these benefits. The Company recognizes termination benefits when it is 
demonstrably committed to either terminating the employment of current employees according to a detailed formal plan without 
realistic possibility of withdrawal, or providing termination benefits as a result of an offer made to encourage voluntary redundancy. 

(q) Non-current assets held for sale and discontinued operations 

The Company classifies non-current assets and disposal groups as held for sale if their carrying amounts will be recovered 
principally through a sale transaction rather than through continuing use. Non-current assets and disposal groups classified as held 
for sale are measured at the lower of their carrying amount and fair value less costs to sell. Costs to sell are the incremental costs 
directly attributable to the disposal of an asset (disposal group), excluding finance costs and income tax expense. 

The criteria for held for sale classification is regarded as met only when the sale is highly probable and the asset or disposal group is 
available for immediate sale in its present condition. Actions required to complete the sale should indicate that it is unlikely that 
significant changes to the sale will be made or that the decision to sell will be withdrawn. Management must be committed to the 
plan to sell the asset and the sale expected to be completed within one year from the date of the classification. 

Property and equipment and intangible assets are not depreciated or amortized once classified as held for sale. 

All the financial statements include amounts for continuing operations. Additional disclosures about assets held for sale are provided 
in note 13. 

4.

Significant accounting judgments, estimates and assumptions 

The preparation of the Company’s consolidated financial statements requires management to make judgments, estimates, and assumptions that affect the 
reported amounts of revenues, expenses, assets, and liabilities and the accompanying disclosures and the disclosure of contingent liabilities. Uncertainty 
about these assumptions and estimates could result in outcomes that require a material adjustment to the carrying amount of assets or liabilities in future 
periods. 

Judgments 

In the process of applying the Company’s accounting policies, management has made judgments, which have the most significant effect on the amounts 
recognized in the consolidated financial statements in the following area: 

F-30

(Continued)

COPA HOLDINGS, S. A. AND SUBSIDIARIES 

Notes to the consolidated financial statements 

•

Leases 

The Company enters into contracts for the use of the aircraft and real estate which include, airport and terminal facilities, sales offices, maintenance 
facilities, and general offices. The Company assesses, based on the terms and conditions of the arrangements, whether the contract is, or contains, a 
lease. A contract is, or contains, a lease if the contract conveys the right to control the use of an identified asset for a period of time in exchange for 
consideration. 

•

Lease term 

The Company determines the lease term as the non-cancellable term of the lease, together with any periods covered by an option to extend the lease if it 
is reasonably certain to be exercised, or any periods covered by an option to terminate the lease, if it is reasonably certain not to be exercised. 

The Company applies judgement in evaluating whether it is reasonably certain or not to exercise the option to renew or terminate the lease. That is, it 
considers all relevant factors that create an economic incentive for it to exercise either the renewal or termination. After the commencement date, the 
Company reassesses the lease term if there is a significant event or change in circumstances that is within its control and affects its ability to exercise or 
not to exercise the option to renew or to terminate (e.g., construction of significant leasehold improvements or significant customisation to the leased 
asset). 

Estimates and assumptions 

The key assumptions concerning the future and other key sources of estimation uncertainty at the reporting date, that have a significant risk of causing a 
material adjustment to the carrying amounts of assets and liabilities within the next financial year, are described below. 

The Company based its assumptions and estimates on parameters available when the consolidated financial statements were prepared. Existing 
circumstances and assumptions about future developments, however, may change due to market changes or circumstances arising beyond the 
Company’s control. Such changes are reflected in the assumptions when they occur. 

•

Impairment of financial assets 

The loss allowances for financial assets are based on assumptions about risk of default and expected loss rates. The Company uses judgement in making 
these assumptions and selecting the inputs to the impairment calculation, based on the Company’s past history, existing market conditions as well as 
forward looking estimates at the end of each quarterly reporting period. 

•

Impairment of non-financial assets 

Impairment exists when the carrying amount of an asset or CGU exceeds its recoverable amount, which is the higher of its fair value less costs to sell 
and its value in use. The fair value less costs to sell calculation is based on available data from binding sales transactions, conducted at arm’s length, for 
similar assets or observable market prices less incremental costs for disposing of the asset. The value in use calculation is based on a discounted cash 
flow model. The cash flows are derived from the budget for the next five years and do not include restructuring activities that the Company is not yet 
committed to or significant future investments that will enhance the asset’s performance of the CGU being tested. The recoverable amount is most 
sensitive to the discount rate used for the discounted cash flow model as well as the expected future cash-inflows and the growth rate used for 
extrapolation purposes (see note 16). 

F-31

(Continued)

COPA HOLDINGS, S. A. AND SUBSIDIARIES 

Notes to the consolidated financial statements 

•

Property and equipment 

The Company’s management has determined that the residual value of the airframe, engines, and components (rotable parts) owned is 15% of the cost 
of the asset, so the depreciation of flight equipment is made accordingly. Annually, management reviews the useful life and residual value of each of 
these assets (see note 13). 

•

Provision for return condition 

The Company records a provision to accrue for the cost that will be incurred in order to return the lease aircraft to their lessor in the agreed-upon 
condition, excluded estimated dismantling costs not based on utilization of the aircraft which are included in the ROU asset and lease liability. The 
methodology applied to calculate the provision requires management to make assumptions, including the future maintenance costs, discount rate, related 
inflation rates and aircraft utilization. The cash flows are discounted at a current pre-tax rate that reflects the risks specific to the decommissioning. 

Any difference in the actual maintenance cost incurred and the amount of the provision is recorded under “Maintenance, materials and repairs” in the 
consolidated statement of profit or loss. The effect of any changes in estimates, including those mentioned above, is also recognized under 
“Maintenance, materials and repairs” for the period (see note 21). 

•

Revenue recognition – expired tickets 

The Company recognizes estimated fare revenue for tickets that are expected to expire based on departure date (unused tickets), historical data and 
experience. Estimating the expected expiration rate requires management’s judgment, among other things, the historical data and experience is an 
indication of the future customer behavior. 

•

Multiple deliverable revenue arrangements - Frequent flyer program 

The frequent flyer program includes two major transactions that are considered revenue arrangements with multiple performance obligations: 
(i) mileage credits earned with travel and (ii) mileage credits sold to co-branded credit card partner and other partners. The Company estimates the fair 
value of the miles in those transactions using a blended calculation of rates charged when miles are sold to other partners and the average value of a mile 
flown by a customer, less and estimate of the miles that will expire unused (breakage). The Company engages a specialist to assist in the performance of 
the breakage calculation. 

•

Taxes 

The Company believes that taken tax positions, including transfer pricing between entities, are reasonable. However, in the event of an audit by the tax 
authorities, they may challenge the positions taken by the Company, resulting in additional taxes and interest liabilities. 

The tax positions involve considerable judgment by management and are reviewed and adjusted to account for changes in circumstances, such as 
lapsing of applicable statutes of limitations, conclusion of tax audits, additional exposures based on identification of new issues, or court decisions 
affecting a particular tax issue. Actual results may differ from estimates (see note 22). 

•

Incremental borrowing rate for leases 

The Company cannot readily determine the interest rate implicit in the lease, therefore, it uses its incremental borrowing rate (IBR) to measure lease 
liabilities. The IBR is the rate of interest that the Company would have to pay to borrow over a similar term, and with a similar security, the funds 
necessary to obtain an asset of a similar value to the right-of-use asset in a similar economic environment. The Company estimates the IBR using 
observable inputs (such as market interest rates) when available and is required to make certain entity-specific estimates. 

F-32

(Continued)

COPA HOLDINGS, S. A. AND SUBSIDIARIES 

Notes to the consolidated financial statements 

•

Fair value measurement 

The Company measures financial instruments such as derivatives at fair value at the date of each statement of financial position. Fair values of financial 
instruments measured at amortized cost are disclosed in note 28.7. 

Fair value is the price that would be received to sell an asset or paid to transfer a liability in an orderly transaction between market participants at the 
measurement date. 

The fair value measurement is based on the presumption that the transaction to sell the asset or transfer the liability takes place either: 

•

•

in the principal market for the asset or liability, or 

in the absence of a principal market, in the most advantageous market for the asset or liability. 

The principal or the most advantageous market must be accessible to the Company. 

The fair value of an asset or a liability is measured using the assumptions that market participants would use when pricing the asset or liability, 
assuming that market participants act in their economic best interest. 

A fair value measurement of a non-financial asset takes into account a market participant’s ability to generate economic benefits by using the asset in its 
highest and best use or by selling it to another market participant that would use the asset in its highest and best use. 

The Company uses valuation techniques that are appropriate in the circumstances and for which sufficient data are available to measure fair value, 
maximizing the use of relevant observable inputs and minimizing the use of unobservable inputs. 

All assets and liabilities for which fair value is measured or disclosed in the financial statements are categorized within the fair value hierarchy, 
described as follows, based on the lowest level input that is significant to the fair value measurement as a whole (see note 28.7 for further disclosures): 

i)

ii)

iii)

Level 1 - Quoted (unadjusted) market prices in active markets for identical assets or liabilities. 

Level 2 - Valuation techniques for which the lowest level input that is significant to the fair value measurement is directly or indirectly 
observable. 

Level 3 - Valuation techniques for which the lowest level input that is significant to the fair value measurement is unobservable. The inputs to 
these models are taken from observable markets where possible, but where this is not feasible, a degree of judgment is required in establishing fair 
values. Judgments include considerations of inputs such as liquidity risk, credit risk and volatility. Changes in assumptions about these factors 
could affect the reported fair value of financial instruments. 

For assets and liabilities that are recognized in the financial statements on a recurring basis, the Company determines whether transfers have occurred 
between levels in the hierarchy by re-assessing categorization (based on the lowest level input that is significant to the fair value measurement as a 
whole) at the end of each reporting period. 

F-33

(Continued)

COPA HOLDINGS, S. A. AND SUBSIDIARIES 

Notes to the consolidated financial statements 

5.

Adoption of new and amended standards and interpretations 

IFRS 16 leases 

Except for the changes below, the Company has consistently applied the accounting policies to all periods present in these consolidated financial 
statement. 

The Company has applied IFRS 16 with a date of initial application of 1 January 2019. As a result, the Company has changed its accounting policy for 
lease contracts as detailed in note 3 (k). IFRS 16 supersedes IAS 17 Leases, IFRIC 4 Determining whether an arrangement contains a lease, SIC-15 
operating leases-incentives and SIC-27 Evaluating the substance of transactions involving the legal form of a lease. The standard sets out the principles 
for the recognition, measurement, presentation and disclosure of leases and requires lessees to recognize most leases on the statement of financial 
position. 

The Company has adopted the standard using the full retrospective approach and has restated comparatives for the 2018 and 2017 reporting periods. The 
details of the changes in accounting policies are disclosed below: 

The Company as a lessee 

Previously, the Company determined at contract inception, whether an arrangement is or contains a lease under IAS 17 and IFRIC 4 classifying leases as 
operating or finance leases based on its assessment of whether the lease transferred significantly all of the risks and rewards incidental to ownership of 
the underlying asset to the Company. Under IFRS 16, the Company set up a project team which reviewed all of the Company’s operating leases under 
IAS 17, over the new lease definition as explained in note 3(k) to classify the contracts in lease or contract services. 

The Company has elected to present right-of-use assets and lease liabilities (short-term and long-term) separately in the consolidated statement of 
financial position. Moreover, rental expenses were previously presented under “aircraft rentals and other rentals” in the consolidated statement of profit 
or loss, with the adoption of IFRS 16 this caption was integrated under “Other operating and administrative expenses” which include the expense for 
contract services, variable lease payments, short term and low value lease. 

The Company elected to use the exemptions proposed by the standard on lease contracts for which the lease terms ends within 12 months, and lease 
contracts for which the underlying asset is of low value. The Company has leases of certain office equipment (i.e., personal computers, printing, 
photocopying machines, and others) that are considered of low value. 

For leases that were not covered by the recognition exemptions under IFRS 16, the Company recognized ROU and lease liabilities measured under IFRS 
16. 

The main changes arising on the adoption of IFRS 16 include the capitalization of the following major classes of underlying assets previously classified 
as operating leases: 

•

Aircraft

As of December 31, 2019 and 2018 the Company has 29 (2017: 30) aircraft under long-term lease agreements (all previously operating leases under IAS 
17) with an average lease term of 10 years. The lease term used on the IFRS 16 calculations, corresponds to the duration of the contracts signed except 
in cases where the Company is reasonably certain of exercising renewal options foreseen. Those long term contracts, include fix payments and variables 
under LIBOR and do not include residual value provisions. 

F-34

(Continued)

COPA HOLDINGS, S. A. AND SUBSIDIARIES 

Notes to the consolidated financial statements 

These leases do not provide a readily determinable implicit rate, so the Company has estimated the incremental borrowing rate based on what it would 
have to pay to borrow over a similar term, and with a similar asset in a similar economic environment. 

On ROU of lease aircraft, the Company has identified major maintenance inspection or overhaul embedded in the aircraft which has been recognized as 
a separated component and is depreciated over the estimated period until the first maintenance event is performed or the remaining lease term. 

In addition, as part of the ROU cost as of the inception of the contract, the Company has capitalized an estimate of the costs from work required to be 
performed just before the redelivery of the aircraft to the lessors and which does not depend of the aircraft utilization. The related obligation is booked 
as a dismantling provision cost under “long term liabilities” in the consolidated statement of financial position. 

•

Real estate

The Company uses real estate assets including airport and terminal facilities, sales offices, maintenance facilities, and general offices. Contracts 
agreements include renewal options; a few have escalation clauses, but no purchase options. Most of the spaces in airport, are generally leased from 
government agencies that control the use of the airport, therefore, these agreements may include the use of non-exclusive areas where there is no 
dedicated asset. In other cases, although a dedicated asset exists, the lessor has an effective substitution right. As a result, in both cases the Company 
does not consider the existence of a lease contract. 

Expenses related to the use of airports facilities outside the scope of IFRS 16 are recognized under “Other operating and administrative expenses” in the 
consolidated statement of profit or loss. 

The Company has capitalized lease contracts concerning lounges and maintenance hangar highly customized for Company use, and administrative and 
sales offices. The lease term corresponds to the not terminable period completed, if necessary, by options of renewal which are reasonably certain. The 
discount rate used is the incremental borrowing rate based on mortgage rates. 

The Company as a lessor 

Lessor accounting under IFRS 16 is substantially unchanged from IAS 17. Lessors will continue to classify leases as either operating or finance leases 
using similar principles as in IAS 17. Therefore, IFRS 16 does not have an impact for leases where the Company is the lessor. As of December 31, 2019 
and 2018, the Company only acts as a lessor under operating leases. 

F-35

(Continued)

COPA HOLDINGS, S. A. AND SUBSIDIARIES 

Notes to the consolidated financial statements 

The effect of adopting IFRS 16 is, as follows: 

Impact on the consolidated statement of financial position 

(increase/(decrease)) 

ASSETS

Currents assets

Prepaid expenses

Total currents assets

Non-currents assets

Right of use assets

Total non-currents assets
Total assets

LIABILITIES AND EQUITY

Current liabilities

Trade, other payables and financial liabilities
Current portion of lease liability
Accrued expenses payable

Total current liabilities

Non-current liabilities
Lease liability
Other long-term liabilities

Total non-current liabilities
Total liabilities

EQUITY

Retained earnings
Net (loss) profit

Total equity
Total liabilities and equity

2019

2018

2017

$ (3,718)  $ (4,147)  $ (3,857) 
(3,857) 

(3,718) 

(4,147) 

290,843
290,843
$ 287,125

361,993
361,993
$ 357,846

384,350
384,350
$ 380,493

$

(819)  $

(791)  $

(629) 

97,732
—  
96,913

206,832
24,327
231,159
328,072

102,452
—  
101,661

273,231
23,848
297,079
398,740

106,950
957
107,278

290,056
24,156
314,212
421,490

(40,894) 
(52) 
(40,946) 

(40,997) 
103
(40,894) 

(39,551) 
(1,446) 
(40,997) 

$ 287,126

$ 357,846

$ 380,493

F-36

(Continued)

COPA HOLDINGS, S. A. AND SUBSIDIARIES 

Notes to the consolidated financial statements 

Impact on the consolidated statement of profit or loss 

(increase/(decrease)) 

Operating expenses

Maintenance, materials and repairs
Depreciation and amortization
Other operating and administrative expenses

Operating profit

Non-operating (expense) income

Finance cost
Gain on foreign currency fluctuations

Net (loss) profit

2019

2018

2017

$

—  
102,824
(116,828) 
(14,004) 
14,004

(14,140) 

84

(14,056) 
(52) 

$

$

(967) 

$

(967) 

107,127
(120,684) 
(14,524) 
14,524

(14,975) 
554
(14,421) 
103

$

110,199
(123,586) 
(14,354) 
14,354

(15,873) 

73

(15,800) 
(1,446) 

$

There is no material impact on the Company’s basic or diluted earnings per share for the year ended December 31, 2018 and 2017. 

Impact on the consolidated statement of cash flows 

(increase/(decrease)) 

Operating activities
Net profit (loss)
Adjustments for:
Finance cost
Depreciation and amortization
Net foreign exchange differences

Change in:

Other current assets
Accounts payable
Other liability

Cash from operating activities

Interest paid

Net cash from operating activities

Financing activities

Payment of lease liabilities

Net cash used in financing activities

2018

2017

$

103

$

(1,446) 

14,975
107,127

15,873
110,199

(554) 

290
(550) 
(967) 

120,424
(14,170) 
106,254

(106,254) 
(106,254) 

(73) 

248
(630) 
(967) 

123,204
(15,030) 
108,174

(108,174) 
(108,174) 

The major impact on the consolidated statement of cash flows was the reclassification from operating cash flow to financing cash flow of the 
repayments of lease liabilities. 

F-37

(Continued)

COPA HOLDINGS, S. A. AND SUBSIDIARIES 

Notes to the consolidated financial statements 

Other standards issued 

The following amendments and interpretations effective for annual periods beginning on or after January 1, 2019, had no impact on the company’s 
financial statements: 

IFRIC 23 Uncertainty over income tax treatments. The Company determined, based on its tax compliance and transfer pricing study, that it is 
probable that its tax treatments (including those for the subsidiaries) will be accepted by the taxation authorities. 

Amendment to IFRS 9 Prepayment features with negative compensation

Amendment to IAS 28 Investments in Associates and Joint Ventures

Amendments to IAS 19 Employee benefits’ on plan amendment, curtailment or settlement

Annual Improvements Cycle 2015–2017: IFRS 3 Business combinations, IFRS 11 Joint arrangements, IAS 12 Income taxes and IAS 23
Borrowing costs.

The Company has not early adopted any standards, interpretations or amendments that have been issued but are not yet effective. 

6.

Standards issued but not yet effective 

The new and amended standards and interpretations that are issued, but not yet effective, up to the date of issuance of the Company’s financial 
statements are disclosed below. The Company intends to adopt these standards, if applicable, when they become effective. 

IFRS 17 Insurance Contracts

In May 2017, the IASB issued IFRS 17 Insurance Contracts, a comprehensive new accounting standard for insurance contracts covering recognition 
and measurement, presentation and disclosure. Once effective, IFRS 17 will replace IFRS 4 Insurance Contracts that was issued in 2005. IFRS 17 
applies to all types of insurance contracts (i.e., life, non-life, direct insurance and reinsurance), regardless of the type of entities that issue them, as well 
as to certain guarantees and financial instruments with discretionary participation features. 

IFRS 17 is effective for reporting periods beginning on or after January 1, 2021 with comparative figures required. Early application is permitted; 
provided the entity also applies IFRS 9 and IFRS 15 on or before the date it first applies IFRS 17. This standard is not applicable to the Company. 

Amendments to IFRS 3 – Definition of a business

This amendment was issue in October 2018 and revises the definition of a business. According to the new guidance to be considered a business, an 
acquisition would have to include an input and a substantive process that together significantly contribute to the ability to create outputs. 

The amendment is effective for reporting periods beginning on or after January 1, 2020 and the Company does not expect that this amendment has a 
material impact on its consolidated financial statements. 

Amendments to IAS 1 and IAS 8 - Definition of material

In October 2018, the IASB has issued amendments to IAS 1 Presentation of Financial Statements and IAS 8 Accounting Policies, Changes in 
Accounting Estimates and Errors to align the definition of ‘material’ across the standards and to clarify certain aspects of the definition. The new 
definition states that, “Information is material if omitting, misstating or obscuring it could reasonably be expected to influence decisions that the primary 
users of general purpose financial statements make on the basis of those financial statements, which provide financial information about a specific 
reporting entity.” 

F-38

(Continued)

COPA HOLDINGS, S. A. AND SUBSIDIARIES 

Notes to the consolidated financial statements 

These amendments should be applied for annual periods beginning on or after January 1, 2020. Earlier application is permitted. The Company does not 
expect that those amendments have a material impact on its consolidated financial statements. 

Amendments to IFRS 9, IAS 39 and IFRS 7 – Interest rate benchmark reform

In September 2019, the IASB has issued amendments to IFRS 9 Financial Instruments, IAS 39 Financial Instruments: Recognition and Measurement
and IFRS 7 Financial Instruments: Disclosures that provide certain reliefs in connection with interest rate benchmark reform. The reliefs relate to hedge 
accounting and have the effect that InterBank Offered Rate (IBOR) reform should not generally cause hedge accounting to terminate. However, any 
hedge ineffectiveness should continue to be recorded in the income statement. Given the pervasive nature of hedges involving IBOR-based contracts, 
the reliefs will affect companies in all industries. 

These amendments should be applied for annual periods beginning on or after January 1, 2020. Earlier application is permitted. Since the Company does 
not have financial instruments designated under hedge accounting, the amendments will not have an impact on its consolidated financial statements. 

7.

Revenue from contract with customers 

7.1 Revenue disaggregation 

Operating revenues are comprised of passenger revenues, cargo and mail, and other operating revenues. The following table shows disaggregated 
operating revenues for the years ended as December 31, 2019, 2018 and 2017. 

Passenger revenue

Passenger revenue
Miles redeemed

Cargo and mail revenue
Other operating revenue

Frequent flyer program - marketing services
Other operating revenue

2019

2018

2017

$ 2,581,179
31,426
2,612,605
62,460

22,170
10,173
32,343
$ 2,707,408

$ 2,567,316
20,073
2,587,389
62,483

16,291
11,464
27,755
$ 2,677,627

$ 2,434,820
9,431
2,444,251
55,290

13,332
8,913
22,245
$ 2,521,786

7.2 Contract balances 

The significant contract liabilities are comprises of ticket sales for transportation that has not yet been provided, recorded as “Air traffic liability” and 
outstanding loyalty program miles that may be redeemed for future travel, recorded as “Frequent flyer deferred revenue”. 

F-39

(Continued)

COPA HOLDINGS, S. A. AND SUBSIDIARIES 

Notes to the consolidated financial statements 

The table below presents the changes in air traffic liability: 

Balance at beginning of year
Deferred of revenue
Recognition of revenue

Balance at end of year

2019
471,676
2,514,601
(2,488,903) 
497,374

$

$

$

2018
477,168
2,537,772
(2,543,264) 
471,676
$

$

2017
399,796
2,511,970
(2,434,598) 
477,168
$

The contract duration of passenger tickets is one year. Accordingly, any revenue associated with tickets sold for future travel dates will be recognized 
within twelve months. 

The table below presents the activity of the current and non-current frequent flyer liability: 

Frequent flyer liability 

Balance at beginning of year
Deferred of revenue
Recognition of revenue

Balance at end of year
Current
Non-current

Contract assets are reflected as account receivable. See note 10. 

7.3

Segment reporting 

2019
$ 67,814
43,938
(31,426) 
$ 80,326
35,120
45,206
$ 80,326

2018
$ 50,312
37,575
(20,073) 
$ 67,814
30,342
37,472
$ 67,814

2017
$ 36,682
23,061
(9,431) 
50,312
17,197
33,115
$ 50,312

The Company’s business activities are conducted as one operating segment – Air transportation, the reporting results of which are regularly reviewed by 
management for purposes of analyzing its performance and making decisions about resource allocations. Information concerning operating revenue by 
geographic area for the period ended December 31 is as follows : 

North America
Panama
Central America and the Caribbean
Brazil
Argentina
Colombia
Others South America

$

2019
857,002
630,966
211,567
279,718
156,149
201,887
337,776
$ 2,675,065

$

2018
826,529
536,036
210,800
284,858
234,042
203,411
354,196
$ 2,649,872

$

2017
740,541
501,896
202,390
328,109
211,777
186,315
328,513
$ 2,499,541

The Company attributes revenue to the geographic areas based on point of sales. Our tangible assets and capital expenditures consist primarily of flight 
and related ground support equipment, which is mobile across geographic markets and, therefore, has not been allocated. 

F-40

(Continued)

COPA HOLDINGS, S. A. AND SUBSIDIARIES 

Notes to the consolidated financial statements 

8.

Cash and cash equivalents 

Checking and saving accounts
Time deposits of no more than ninety days
Cash on hand

2019
$ 118,367
40,000
365
$ 158,732

2018
$ 121,799
34,000
359
$ 156,158

As of December 31, 2019 and 2018, the Company’s cash and cash equivalents are free of restriction or charges that could limit its availability. 

Time deposits earned interest based on rates determined by the banks in which the instruments are held, ranging between 1.71% and 1.98% for U.S. 
dollars investments until December 2019 (2018: between 2.45% and 2.90% for U.S. dollars investments). 

9.

Investments 

Time deposits
Bonds

Allowance for expected credit losses

Current
$ 640,500
52,573
693,073

2019
Non Current
60,000
$
74,634
134,634

Total
$ 700,500
127,207
827,707

Current
$ 531,002
35,895
566,897

2018
Non Current
65,000
$
74,367
139,367

Total
$ 596,002
110,262
706,264

(670) 

(287) 

(957) 

(697) 

(521) 

(1,218) 

$ 692,403

$  134,347

$ 826,750

$ 566,200

$  138,846

$ 705,046

Time deposits earned interest based on rates determined by the banks in which the instruments are held. The use of these instruments depends on the 
cash requirements of the Company. Time deposits with a contractual maturity of less than 365 days, bear interest at rates ranging between 2.00% and 
3.75% (2018: between 2.62% and 3.75%), and those with a contractual maturity of more than 365 have rates ranging between 3.25% and 4.38% (2018: 
between 3.35% and 4.38%). 

The Company acquired bonds with semiannual interest payment, the interest rates of these investments ranging between 2.06% and 3.32% (2018: 
between 2.53% and 3.32%). 

All of the investments at amortized cost are denominated in U.S. dollar, as a result, there is no exposure to foreign currency risk. There is also no 
exposure to price risk as the investments will be held to maturity. 

The information about the expected credit loss over these financial assets are disclosed in note 28.3. 

F-41

(Continued)

COPA HOLDINGS, S. A. AND SUBSIDIARIES 

Notes to the consolidated financial statements 

10. Accounts receivable 

Credit cards
Travel agencies and airlines clearing house
Cargo and other travel agencies
Government
Trade receivables from related parties
Other

Allowance for expected credit losses

Current
Non-current

2019
$ 64,596
31,087
19,389
8,031
147
14,250
137,500

2018
$ 56,446
32,978
11,766
6,342
223
14,533
122,288

(5,579) 

(5,057) 

$ 131,921
129,781
2,139
$ 131,920

$ 117,231
116,054
1,177
$ 117,231

Trade receivables are non-interest bearing and have maturities between 30 to 90 days. 

See detail of trade receivables from related parties in note 23. 

As of December 31, 2019, the Company maintains a non-current account receivable with a government institution in the amount of $2.1 million net of 
the expected credit losses (2018: $1.2 million). 

The category “Other” mainly includes receivables from miles partners and employees accounts. 

The movement in the allowance for expected credit losses in respect of accounts receivable during the year was as follows. 

Balance at beginning of year
Adjustment on initial application of IFRS 9
Balance at beginning of year under IFRS 9
Additions
Write-offs
Balance at end of year

The information about the credit exposures is disclosed in note 28.3. 

2019
$ (5,057) 

—  
(5,057) 
(744) 
222

$ (5,579) 

2018
$ (3,673) 
(624) 
(4,297) 
(1,311) 
551

$ (5,057) 

2017
$ (3,739) 

—  
(3,739) 
(879) 
945

$ (3,673) 

F-42

(Continued)

COPA HOLDINGS, S. A. AND SUBSIDIARIES 

Notes to the consolidated financial statements 

11. Expendable parts and supplies 

Material for repair and maintenance
Other inventories

Allowance for obsolescence

2019
$ 66,418
3,686
70,104
(1,004) 

$ 69,100

2018
$ 93,654
3,315
96,969
(10,439) 

$ 86,530

Expendable parts and supplies recognized when used as an expense in the accompanying consolidated statement of profit or loss under “Maintenance, 
materials and repairs” amount to $32.4 million, $31.9 million and $28.1 million, for the years ended December 31, 2019, 2018 and 2017, respectively. 

As of December 31, 2019 the expendables parts and supplies related to the Embraer E190 fleet were classified as “Asset held for sale”. Impairment 
losses of $11.6 millions to write-down these assets to the lower of its carrying amount and its fair value less cost to sell have been included in 
“Impairment of non financial assets” in the consolidated statement of profit or loss (see note 13). The Company engaged a specialist to assist in the 
performance of the fair value calculation of the expendables and supplies. 

As of December 31, 2018, the allowance for obsolescence included $9.6 million, recorded as impairment of non-financial assets, which was the 
estimated amount of Embraer inventory that was not expected to be consumed during the next 5 year remaining fleet life of the Embraer 190 fleet. 

12. Prepaid expenses 

Prepaid taxes
Prepaid commissions
Prepaid rent
Prepaid insurance
Prepaid to supplier

Current
Non-current

2019
$ 26,164
4,298
1,197
1,231
33,887
$ 66,777
49,034
17,743
$ 66,777

2018
$ 40,504
4,694
2,702
2,304
45,670
$ 95,874
70,237
25,637
$ 95,874

Prepaid taxes include $8.4 million of tax advance of VAT and withholdings taxes (2018: $14.9 million). The non-current portion of prepaid expenses 
corresponds to $1.3 million (2018: $11.2 million) of advance payments of taxes which are credited to future payments from tax dividends in Panama 
and $16.5 million in tax credits (2018: $14.4 million). 

F-43

(Continued)

COPA HOLDINGS, S. A. AND SUBSIDIARIES 

Notes to the consolidated financial statements 

Prepaid to supplier mainly includes operating expenses related to fuel and maintenance services. As of December 31, 2019, includes $2.0 million (2018: 
$24.0 million) paid in advance to GE Engines Services, LLC, for the purpose of future maintenance services related to aircraft engines. 

F-44

(Continued)

COPA HOLDINGS, S. A. AND SUBSIDIARIES 

Notes to the consolidated financial statements 

13. Property and equipment 

Cost -

Balance at January 1, 2017

Transfer of pre-delivery payments
Additions
Disposals
Reclassifications

Balance at December 31, 2017

Transfer of pre-delivery payments
Additions
Disposals
Assets held for sale
Reclassifications

Balance at December 31, 2018

Transfer of pre-delivery payments
Additions
Disposals
Assets held for sale
Reclassifications

Balance at December 31, 2019

Accumulated depreciation -

Balance at January 1, 2017

Depreciation for the year
Disposals
Reclassifications

Balance at December 31, 2017

Depreciation for the year
Disposals
Assets held for sale
Reclassifications
Impairment

Balance at December 31, 2018
Depreciation for the year
Disposals
Assets held for sale
Balance at December 31, 2019

Carrying amounts -

At December 31, 2017

At December 31, 2018

At December 31, 2019

Land

$ 6,301
—  
—  
—  
—  
$ 6,301
—  
—  
—  
—  
—  
$ 6,301
—  
—  
—  
—  
—  
$ 6,301

$ —  
—  
—  
—  

$ —  
—  
—  
—  
—  
—  
$ —  
—  
—  
—  

Flight
equipment

$  3,115,242
28,674
158,557
(54,114) 
3,870
$ 3,252,229
156,305
228,302
(20,737) 
(164,201) 
(2,371) 

$ 3,449,527
78,143
109,286
(184,685) 
(413,677) 

—  
$ 3,038,594

$ (999,461)

(148,188) 
51,233
(1,335) 

$

(1,097,751) 
(147,980) 
16,876
75,556
268

(130,709) 
$ (1,283,740) 
(148,832) 
178,168
226,319

$ —  

$ (1,028,085) 

$ 6,301

$ 2,154,478

$ 6,301

$ 2,165,787

$ 6,301

$ 2,010,509

Purchase
deposits for flight
equipment

Ramp and
miscellaneous

Furniture,
fixtures,
equipment a
and other

Leasehold
improvements

Construction
in progress

Total

$

$

$

$

$

$

$

$

$

$

$

45,170
—  
1,461
(228) 
1,950
48,353
—  
5,434
(128) 
—  
77
53,736
—  
2,693
(102) 
—  
10
56,337

 (31,865) 
(3,811) 
200
(1,540) 

 (37,016) 
(3,783) 
118
—  
—  
—  

 (40,681) 
(3,292) 
102
—  

 (43,871)

11,337

13,055

12,466

$

$

$

$

$

$

$

$

$

$

$

29,607
—  
3,392
(711) 
(4,764) 
27,524
—  
3,773
(393) 
—  
14
30,918
—  
2,450
(570) 
—  
—  
32,798

 (25,581) 
(2,192) 
704
4,110

(22,959) 
(2,506) 
379
—  
—  
—  

 (25,086) 
(2,938) 
518
—  

(27,506) 

4,565

5,832

5,292

$

$

$

$

$

$

$

$

$

$

$

44,981
—  
1,614
—  
3,448
50,043
—  
3,388
(6,246) 
—  
2,219
49,404
—  
3,269
(134) 
—  
12,752
65,291

 (26,179) 
(4,505) 
—  
(1,235) 

(31,919) 
(5,038) 
6,396
—  
—  
—  
(30,561) 
(5,757) 
—  
—  

 (36,318)

18,124

18,843

28,973

$

$

$

$

$

$

$

$

$

$

$

$

$

$

$

$

$

$

$

$

$

$

250,165
(28,674) 
192,196

(54) 
—  
413,633
(156,305) 
216,732
—  
—  
—  
474,060
(78,143) 
67,357
—  
—  
—  
463,274

—  
—  
—  
—  

—  
—  
—  
—  
—  
—  
—  
—  
—  
—  

—  

413,633

474,060

463,274

F-45

6,593
—  
5,246
—  
(6,061) 
5,778
—  
10,795

(10) 
—  
(2,310) 
14,253
—  
4,436
(340) 
—  
(12,762) 
5,587

—  
—  
—  
—  

—  
—  
—  
—  
—  
—  
—  
—  
—  
—  

$ 3,498,059
—  
362,466
(55,107) 
(1,557) 

$ 3,803,861
—  
468,424
(27,514) 
(164,201) 
(2,371) 

$ 4,078,199
—  
189,491
(185,831) 
(413,677) 

—  
$ 3,668,182

$ (1,083,086) 
(158,696) 
52,137
—  

$ (1,189,645) 
(159,307) 
23,769
75,556
268

(130,709) 
$ (1,380,068) 
(160,819) 
178,788
226,319

—  

$ (1,135,780) 

5,778

$ 2,614,216

14,253

$ 2,698,131

5,587

$ 2,532,402

(Continued)

COPA HOLDINGS, S. A. AND SUBSIDIARIES 

Notes to the consolidated financial statements 

Flight equipment 

Flight equipment comprises aircraft, engines, aircraft components and major maintenance of own and leased aircraft. 

The Company has acquired aircraft through Japanese Operating Leases with Call Option (JOLCO) arrangements. These arrangements establish semi-
annual payments of obligations, and have a term of 10 years, with a purchase option at the end of the period. During 2019, 2 new aircraft Boeing 737 
MAX 9 were acquired through this type of arrangements (2018: 2 Boeing 737-800 and 4 Boeing 737 MAX 9). 

Aircraft with a carrying value of $1.5 billion (include aircraft acquired through JOLCO) are pledged as collateral for the obligation of the special 
purpose entities as of December 31, 2019 (2018: $1.6 billion). 

In March 2019, the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) grounded all U.S. registered Boeing 737 MAX aircraft. The Company’ fleet currently 
includes 6 Boeing 737 MAX aircraft with an additional 65 aircraft on order (see note 27). The Company does not expect any recognition of impairment 
of this fleet, since there is no available evidence of obsolescence or physical damage of these assets, it has no plans to dispose of the fleet, reassess the 
lifetime or change the expected use of the aircraft once the FAA restriction is finalized. 

The Company is currently in negotiations with Boeing over compensation for the damages that its have suffered as a result of the MAX grounding and 
expect those to be satisfactory resolved in the near term. 

Purchase deposits for flight equipment 

The additions for $67.3 million include $75.4 million of advance payments on aircraft and engines purchase contracts made during 2019 (2018: $216.7 
million), which includes $1.4 million of borrowing costs capitalized during the year ended December 31, 2019 (2018: $1.4 million and 2017: $1.8 
million), and $8.1 million of credits received on aircraft adquisition The rate used to determine the amount of borrowing costs eligible for capitalization 
was 3.40%, which is the interest rate of the specific borrowing (see note 18). 

As of December 31, 2019 the total amount of purchase deposits for flight equipments correspond to the future purchase of MAX aircraft and engines 
(see note 27). 

Other property and equipment 

During 2019, the Company capitalized as “Leasehold improvements” $11.6 million of a new hangar located at the Tocumen International Airport. 

As of December 31, 2019 and 2018 construction in progress mainly comprises remodeling projects for airport facilities and offices. 

F-46

(Continued)

COPA HOLDINGS, S. A. AND SUBSIDIARIES 

Notes to the consolidated financial statements 

Assets held for sale 

During 2018, the shareholders of the Company approved the plan to sell five aircraft Embraer 190. During 2019, the Company has completed the sale of 
the five Embraer 190 according to the sales plan, no significant additional gain or loss was recognized. 

In November, 2019 the Company announced its decision to accelerate the exit of its Embraer 190 fleet and is initiated an active program to locate a 
buyer to sell the remaining 14 aircraft, spare engines, spare parts and inventory by 2020. The decision responds to the continued deterioration of the 
Embraer 190 fleet performance and the need to grow capacity in some markets aligned with the fleet optimization plan. This anticipated exit results in 
impairment losses of $89.3 million to write down the assets to the lower of its carrying amount and its fair value less cost to sell, which have been 
included under “Impairment of non financial assets” in the accompanying consolidated statement of profit or loss. To meet its capacity demands, the 
Company is evaluating entering into a short term sale leaseback of the Embraer fleet. 

During 2018 the Company reassessed the Embraer 190 assets given its updated fleet plan and other considerations, as consequence the expected useful 
life of the Embraer 190 fleet was shortened to 5 years from the year 2019. This review over the useful live triggered an evaluation of the recoverable 
amount of the Embraer 190 fleet, as the higher of the aircraft’s fair value less costs to sell and its value in use. The value in use was determined using 
cash flow projections from financial budgets approved by senior management covering a five year period. The pre-tax discount rate applied to cash flow 
projections was 13.5%. As a result of this analysis, the Company determined the book value was in excess of its recoverable amount and recognized an 
impairment of $179.0 million over to the Embraer 190 fleet, and it was written down to its fair value less cost to sell. 

The fair value of the Embraer 190 fleet was determined considering specific circumstances of the fleet such as aircraft age, maintenance requirements 
and condition and therefore classifies as Level 2 in the fair value hierarchy. The Company reassessed the Embraer 190 assets and adjusted the 
depreciable life and salvage value to align with the expected transition dates. The effect of theses changes on the expected depreciation expense of this 
fleet amounts to $0.3 million per year. 

At 31 December 2019, the assets held for sale comprised the following assets: 

Assets
Flight equipment
Expendable parts and supplies

14. Leases 

The Company as a lessee 

2019
$ 109,665
10,341
$ 120,006

2018
40,330
—  
$ 40,330

The Company leases some aircraft under long-term lease agreements with an average duration of 10 years. Aircraft under operating leases may be 
renewed in accordance with management’s business plan. 

Other leased assets include real estate, airport and terminal facilities, sales offices, maintenance facilities, and general offices. Most lease agreements 
include renewal options; a few have escalation clauses, but no purchase options. 

F-47

(Continued)

COPA HOLDINGS, S. A. AND SUBSIDIARIES 

Notes to the consolidated financial statements 

Information about leases for which the Company is a lessee is presented below: 

Right of use assets 

Balance at January 1, 2018

Additions
Depreciation expense
Balance at December 31, 2018

Additions
Depreciation expense
Balance at December 31, 2019

Aircraft
$ 350,517
83,389
(100,857) 

$ 333,049
23,162
(95,564) 

$ 260,647

Real estate
$  33,833
1,381
(6,270) 

$ 28,944
8,512
(7,260) 

$ 30,196

Total
$ 384,350
84,770
(107,127) 

$ 361,993
31,674
(102,824) 

$ 290,843

Additions to the right-of-use assets include new leases, contract extensions ,changes in discount rate and changes in rental payments. 

Lease liabilities 

Current portion of lease liability

Aircraft
Real estate

Long-term lease liability

Aircraft
Real estate

2019

2018

$ 91,246
6,486
$ 97,732

$179,031
27,801
$206,832
$304,564

$ 96,853
5,599
$102,452

$246,292
26,939
$273,231
$375,683

For leases under IFRS 16 the Company recognizes a provision to estimate the costs for work required to be performed just before the redelivery of the 
aircraft to the lessors and which does not depend of the aircraft utilization, this provision is booked as a dismantling provision cost under “long term 
liabilities” in the consolidated statement of financial position. As of December 31, 2019 the total liability related to leases including the provision of 
dismantling amounts to $328.9 million (2018: $399.5 million). 

Total cash outflow for leases for the years ended as December 31, 2019 and 2018: 

Aircraft
Real estate

2019
$107,610
9,458
$117,068

2018
$112,707
8,329
$121,036

As of December 31, 2019, the average incremental borrowing rate of leased aircraft is 3.57% (2018: 3.4%). 

The maturity analysis of lease liabilities is disclosed in note 28.5. 

F-48

(Continued)

COPA HOLDINGS, S. A. AND SUBSIDIARIES 

Notes to the consolidated financial statements 

Amounts recognized in the consolidated statement of profit or loss related to leases: 

Depreciation and amortization

Aircraft
Real estate

Other operating and administrative expenses

Short-term leases
Leases of low-value assets
Variable lease payments not include in the measurement of lease liabilities

Finance cost
Aircraft
Real estate
Unwinding of discount and changes in the discount rate

2019

2018

2017

$ 95,564
7,260
$102,824

$

$

364
733
706
1,803

$ 11,221
2,073
846
$ 14,140
$118,767

$100,857
6,270
$107,127

$

$

1,412
853
611
2,876

$ 12,074
2,105
796
$ 14,975
$124,978

$104,282
5,917
$110,199

$

$

1,373
758
542
2,673

$ 12,956
2,151
766
$ 15,873
$128,745

Some property leases in airport contain variable payment terms that are linked to the number of passenger using the areas. 

The unwinding of discount and changes in the discount rate over leased aircraft correspond to the interest expenses of the discounted dismantling 
provision (see note 18). 

The Company as a lessor 

Since 2015, the Company is the lessor of two aircraft, as part of the strategy of fleet management, in order to optimize the use of aircraft in relation to 
the routes scheduled for that year. Each lease is scheduled to expire in 2022. The carrying amount of the two aircraft under operating leases is up to 
$37.7 million (2018: $40.7 million). 

Total lease income amounts to $3.5 million for the period ended December 31, 2019 (2018: $3.5 million and 2017: $3.5 million), included under “Other 
operating revenue” in the accompanying consolidated statement of profit or loss. 

The following table sets out a maturity analysis of lease payments, showing the undiscounted lease payments to be received after the reporting date 

The future minimum lease receivables under non-cancellable leases are as follows: 

Up to one year
One to five years
Total minimum lease rental receivables

2019
$3,220
5,875
$9,095

2018
$3,480
1,595
$5,075

F-49

(Continued)

COPA HOLDINGS, S. A. AND SUBSIDIARIES 

Notes to the consolidated financial statements 

15. Net pension assets 

Pension assets
Post-employment benefits
Other employee benefits

Total employee benefits liability

Net pension asset

2019
$ 29,086

(28,195) 
(642) 
$(28,837) 
$

249

2018
$ 28,339
(22,568) 
(680) 
$(23,248) 
$ 5,091

In accordance with Panamanian law, the Company contributes to the following defined benefit plans: 

Seniority premium plan: it covers all employees eligible for the seniority premium as provided by the Company. Employees are fully vested in their 
benefit upon leaving the Company. The benefits consist of 1.92% of eligible earnings accumulated for each year of service. 

Indemnity plan: it covers all employees eligible for the indemnity plan as provided by the Company. The benefits consist of 6.54% of eligible earnings 
accumulated for each year of service. 

The actuarial liability is recognized for the legal obligation under the formal terms of the plan, and for the implied projections as required under IAS 
19R. These actuarial projections do not constitute a legal obligation for the Company. 

The following table summarizes the components of net benefit expense included under “Wages, salaries, benefits and other employees ‘expenses” in the 
accompanying consolidated statement of profit or loss: 

Year ended December 31, 2019
Current service cost
Interest cost on net benefit obligation
Net benefit expense

Year ended December 31, 2018
Current service cost
Interest cost on net benefit obligation
Net benefit expense

Year ended December 31, 2017
Current service cost
Interest cost on net benefit obligation
Net benefit expense

Defined benefit
obligation

Fair value of
assets

$

$

2,192
887
3,079

$

$

—  
(979) 
(979) 

Defined benefit
obligation

Fair value of
assets

2,105
642
2,747

$

—  
(666) 
(666) 

$

Defined benefit
obligation

Fair value of
assets

1,767
568
2,335

—  
(778) 
(778) 

$

$

F-50

Defined benefit
assets (liability)
2,192
$

(92) 

2,100

$

Defined benefit
assets (liability)
2,105

(24) 

2,081

$

Defined benefit
assets (liability)
1,767
(210) 
1,557

$

(Continued)

COPA HOLDINGS, S. A. AND SUBSIDIARIES 

Notes to the consolidated financial statements 

The following table shows reconciliation from the opening balance to the closing balances for net pension asset and its components: 

At January 1, 2017

Current service cost
Interest cost
Return on plan assets greater (less)
than discount rate
Experience gain (loss)
Investment return
Assumption changes
Employer contributions
Benefits paid
Adjustments
At December 31, 2017

Current service cost
Interest (cost) income
Return on plan assets greater (less)
than discount rate
Experience gain (loss)
Investment return
Assumption changes
Employer contributions
Benefits paid
Adjustments

As of December 31, 2018
Current service cost
Interest (cost) income
Experience gain (loss)
Investment return
Assumption changes
Employer contributions
Benefits paid
Adjustments

As of December 31, 2019

Defined benefit
obligation

$

$

$

$

(16,498) 
(1,767) 
(568) 

—  
(2,033) 
—  
(226) 
—  
1,095
—  

(19,997) 
(2,105) 
(642) 

—  
(1,943) 
—  
877
—  
1,242
—  

(22,568) 
(2,192) 
(887) 
(1,681) 
—  
(1,874) 
—  
1,007
—  

(28,195) 

$

Fair value of
assets
25,946
—  
778

Other employee
benefits liability
$

(622) 
—  
—  

Defined benefit
assets (liability)
8,826
$
(1,767) 
210

(21) 
—  
88
—  
(1,677) 
(1,320) 
—  
23,794
—  
666

483
—  
67
—  
4,780
(1,451) 
—  
28,339
—
979
—  
138
—  
1,903
(1,086) 
(1,187) 
29,086

$

$

$

$

$

$

—  
—  
—  
—  
—  
—  
10
(612) 
—  
—  

—  
—  
—  
—  
—  
—  
(68) 
(680) 
—  
—  
—  
—  
—  
—  
—  
38
(642) 

(21) 
(2,033) 

88
(226) 
(1,677) 
(225) 
10
3,185
(2,105) 
24

483
(1,943) 

67
877
4,780
(209) 
(68) 

5,091
(2,192) 
92
(1,681) 
138
(1,874) 
1,903

(79) 
(1,149) 
249

$

$

$

As of December 31, 2019 and 2018, plan assets are comprised totally by fixed term deposits. 

For the year ended December 31, 2019 actuarial loss of 4.4 million (2018: $0.3 million and 2017: $2.0 million) were recognized in other comprehensive 
income. 

As of December 31, 2019 employer contributions is a net amount of regular contributions by $4.4 million (2018: $4.8 million and 2017: $3.5 million) 
and retirement of interest earned by $2.5 million (2018: null and 2017: $5.2 million). 

F-51

(Continued)

COPA HOLDINGS, S. A. AND SUBSIDIARIES 

Notes to the consolidated financial statements 

The following were the principal actuarial assumptions at the reporting date: 

Economic assumptions -
Discount rate
Compensation - salary increase

Demographic assumptions -

Mortality
Termination
Retirement
Males
Females

2019

2018

2017

2.52% 
4% 

3.91% 
4% 

3.15% 
4% 

RP - 2000 no collar
13% all ages

62 years
57 years

Reasonably possible changes at the reporting date to one of the relevant actuarial assumptions, holding other assumptions constant, would have affected 
the defined benefit obligation by the amount shown below: 

Discount rate (0.5% movement)
Salary rate (0.5% movement)

December, 31 2019

December, 31 2018

December, 31 2017

Increase
$ 709

(144) 

Decrease
$ (751) 
136

Increase
$ 538

(103) 

Decrease
$ (569) 

Increase
$ 506

Decrease
$ (537) 

93

(99) 

89

The following payments are expected contributions to the defined benefit plan in future years: 

Up to one year
One to five years
Over five years
Total expected payments

2019
$ 5,169
14,008
14,049
$33,226

2018
$ 4,163
12,293
13,076
$29,532

F-52

(Continued)

COPA HOLDINGS, S. A. AND SUBSIDIARIES 

Notes to the consolidated financial statements 

16.

Intangible assets 

Cost -

Balance at January 1, 2017

Additions
Disposals
Reclassifications

Balance at December 31, 2017

Additions
Disposals
Reclassifications

Balance at December 31, 2018

Additions
Disposals
Reclassifications

Balance at December 31, 2019

Amortization -

Balance at January 1, 2017

Amortization for the year
Disposals

Balance at December 31, 2017
Amortization for the year
Disposals

Balance at December 31, 2018
Amortization for the year
Disposals

Balance at December 31, 2019

Carrying amounts -

At December 31, 2017
At December 31, 2018
At December 31, 2019

Other intangibles assets

License and
software rights

Intangible
in process

$

$

$

$

$

$

$

$

$
$
$

74,149
1,783
(4,891) 
3,642
74,683
2,711
—  
16,730
94,124
8,503

(86) 

40,660
143,201

(41,105) 
(8,628) 
4,894
(44,839) 
(10,129) 
—  
(54,968) 
(18,437) 

6

(73,399) 

29,844
39,156
69,802

$ 16,078
16,898
—  
(2,085) 

$ 30,891
27,471
—  
(16,730) 

$ 41,632
16,962
—  
(40,660) 

$ 17,934

$ —  
—  
—  
$ —  
—  
—  
$ —  
—  
—  
$ —  

$ 30,891
$ 41,632
$ 17,934

Total

$110,607
18,681
(4,891) 
1,557
$125,954
30,182
—  
—  
$156,136
25,465

(86) 
—  
181,515

$ (41,105) 
(8,628) 
4,894
$ (44,839) 
(10,129) 
—  

$ (54,968) 
(18,437) 

6

$ (73,399) 

$ 81,115
$101,168
$108,116

Goodwill

$20,380
—  
—  
—  
$20,380
—  
—  
—  
$20,380
—  
—  
—  
$20,380

$ —  
—  
—  
$ —  
—  
—  
$ —  
—  
—  
$ —  

$20,380
$20,380
$20,380

Goodwill 

For impairment testing, goodwill acquired through business combinations is allocated to the air transportation CGU. Goodwill is tested for impairment 
annually as at 30 August and when circumstances indicate that the carrying value may be impaired. 

The Company considers the relationship between its market capitalization and its book value, among other factors, when reviewing for indicators of 
impairment. As of December 30, 2019, the market capitalization of the Company is greater than the book value of its equity, indicating goodwill is not 
impaired. 

The recoverable amount of $4.3 billion (2018: $5.2 billion) has been determined based on a value in use calculation using cash flow projections from 
financial budgets approved by senior management covering a five-year period. The cash flows beyond the five-year period are extrapolated using a 
3.0% growth rate. It was concluded that no impairment charge is necessary since the estimated recoverable amount of the CGU exceed its carrying 
value. 

F-53

(Continued)

COPA HOLDINGS, S. A. AND SUBSIDIARIES 

Notes to the consolidated financial statements 

The calculations of value in use of the CGU are sensitive to the following main assumptions: 

•

•

•

•

Revenue – the Company calculated the projected passenger revenue based on the current beliefs, expectations, and projections about 
future events and financial trends affecting its business. 

Cash flows – determination of the terminal value is based on the present value of the Company’s cash flows in perpetuity. When 
estimating the cash flows for use in the residual value calculation, it is essential to clearly define the normalized cash flows level, the 
appropriate discount rate for the degree of risk inherent in that return stream, and a constant future growth rate for the related cash flows. 
To estimate the value, the Gordon Growth Model was used. 

Discount rates – The selected pre-tax rate of 13.5% represents the current market assessment of the risks specific to the CGU, taking into 
consideration the time value of money and individual risks of the underlying assets that have not been incorporated in the cash flow 
estimates. The discount rate calculation is based on the specific circumstances of the Company and its operating segment and is derived 
from its pre-tax weighted average cost of capital (WACC). The WACC takes into account both debt and equity. The cost of equity is 
derived from the expected return on investment by the Company’s investors. The cost of debt is based on the interest-bearing borrowings 
the Company is obliged to service. Segment-specific risk is incorporated by applying individual beta factors. The beta factors are 
evaluated annually based on publicly available market data. 

Sensitivity to changes in assumptions 

The Company estimated that a reduction to 12.5% or an increase to 14.5% in the discount rate would not cause the carrying amounts to 
exceed the recoverable amount. 

Other intangible assets 

Intangible assets in process 

Intangible assets in process as of December 31, 2019 and 2018 mainly comprise the development of an operational system. 

During 2019, the Company capitalized $23.6 million of the new tickets reservation system. During 2018, the Company capitalized a $16.7 million of a 
new internet booking engine, renew aircraft maintenance systems and other programs. 

F-54

(Continued)

COPA HOLDINGS, S. A. AND SUBSIDIARIES 

Notes to the consolidated financial statements 

17. Other assets 

Current -

Interest receivable
Other

Non-current -

Guarantee deposits
Deposits for litigation
Other

2019

2018

$12,838
1,368
14,206

4,121
10,548
3,212
17,881
$32,087

$12,534
1,522
14,056

20,015
10,672
3,212
33,899
$47,955

Guarantee deposits are mainly amounts paid to fuel suppliers, as required at the inception of the agreements (see note 23). 

Deposit for litigation is cash deposited into the escrow account until the related dispute is settled (see note 21). 

18. Debt 

Long-term fixed rate debt
Long-term variable rate debt

Current maturities
Long-term debt

Long-term fixed rate debt
Long-term variable rate debt
Loans payables

Current maturities
Long-term debt

Due
through
2029
2029

Due
through
2028
2028
2019

2019

Effective rates
ranged
1.49% to 4.90%
2.15% to 3.50%

2018

Effective rates
ranged
1.58% to 4.90%
2.67% to 3.91%
3.41% to 3.71%

Carrying
Amount
732,657
322,764
1,055,421
(117,238) 

$ 938,183

Carrying
Amount
779,592
367,656
140,000
1,287,248
(311,965) 

$ 975,283

F-55

(Continued)

COPA HOLDINGS, S. A. AND SUBSIDIARIES 

Notes to the consolidated financial statements 

Maturities of long-term debt for the next five years are as follows: 

Year ending December 31, 2020

2021
2022
2023
2024
Thereafter

117,238
115,965
109,727
88,786
157,824
465,881
$1,055,421

As of December 31, 2019, long-term fixed rate debt included $604.5 million (2018: $601.3 million) and long-term variable debt included $224.3 million 
corresponding to aircraft adquisitions using JOLCO arrangements (2018: $175.5 million). 

As of December 31, 2019 the Company had $226.6 million (2018: $297.8 million) of outstanding indebtedness that is owed to financial institutions 
under financing arrangements guaranteed by the Export-Import Bank of the United States. The Export-Import Bank guarantees support 80% of the net 
purchase price of the aircraft and are secured with a first priority mortgage on the aircraft in favor of a security trustee on behalf of Export-Import Bank. 

The Company’s Export-Import Bank supported financings are amortized on a quarterly basis, are denominated in U.S. dollars, and originally bear 
interest at a floating rate linked to LIBOR. The Export-Import Bank guaranteed facilities typically offer an option to fix the applicable interest rate. The 
Company has exercised this option with respect to $128.1 million as of December 31, 2019 (2018: $178.3 million). 

In the past, the Company has extended the maturity of some of its aircraft financing to 15 years through the use of a “Stretched Overall Amortization 
and Repayment” (SOAR), structure which provides serial draw-downs, calculated to result in a 100% loan accreting to a recourse balloon at the 
maturity of the Export-Import Bank guaranteed loan. During 2019, the Company paid off its 2 remaining aircraft under SOAR structure, therefore there 
is no any outstanding balance as of December 31, 2019 (2018: $15.0 million). 

As of December 31, 2019, the Company do not have any outstanding balances related to its lines of credits (2018: $140.0 million). 

F-56

(Continued)

COPA HOLDINGS, S. A. AND SUBSIDIARIES 

Notes to the consolidated financial statements 

The detail of finance cost and income is as follows: 

Finance income -

Interest income on short-term bank deposits
Interest income on investment

Finance cost -

Interests expense on bank loans
Interest on factoring
Interest on lease liabilities (see note 14)
Other finance cost

Changes in liabilities arising from financing activities: 

Loans and borrowings
Lease liability
Dividends payable

2019

2018

2017

$ 1,432
22,973
$ 24,405

$ 1,670
21,958
$ 23,628

$ 1,499
16,440
$ 17,939

$(36,676)  $(34,687)  $(32,599) 
(2,624) 
(1,163) 
(15,107) 
(14,179) 
(766) 
(796) 
$(57,432)  $(50,825)  $(51,096) 

(1,316) 
(13,294) 
(6,146) 

2018

Cash flows

New debt
$1,287,248 $(426,827)  $ 95,000 $ 100,000 $1,055,421
304,564
(110,438) 

(103,069) 
(110,438) 

375,683
—  

31,950
—  

—  
—  

2019

Non-cash
transactions

Total liabilities from financing activities

$1,662,931 $(640,334)  $ 95,000 $ 131,950 $1,249,547

Loans and borrowings
Lease liability
Dividends payable

2017

Cash flows

New debt
$1,174,581 $(401,333)  $225,000 $ 289,000 $1,287,248
375,683
(147,604) 

(106,254) 
(147,604) 

397,006
—  

84,931
—  

—  
—  

2018

Non-cash
transactions

Total liabilities from financing activities

$1,571,587 $(655,191)  $225,000 $ 373,931 $1,515,327

The Company had non-cash additions to right-of-use asset and lease liabilities of $31.9 million in 2019 (2018: 84.9 million). 

During 2019, the Company’s non-cash investing and financing transactions are comprised of $100.0 million related to the acquisition of two new 
aircraft that are financed using the JOLCO structure (2018: $289.0 million). 

The Company classifies interest paid as cash flows from operating activities. 

F-57

(Continued)

COPA HOLDINGS, S. A. AND SUBSIDIARIES 

Notes to the consolidated financial statements 

19. Trade, other payables and financial liabilities 

Account payables
Account payables to related parties

Others

See details of the account due to related parties in note 23. 

20. Accrued expenses payable 

Accruals and estimations
Labor related provisions
Liability for social security contributions
Other

2019
$119,332
14,086
133,418
84
$133,502

2018
$124,962
14,673
139,635
604
$140,239

2019
$ 4,616
44,401
5,617
739
$55,373

2018
$ 4,500
36,953
4,955
982
$47,390

As of December 31, 2019, accruals and estimations include the estimated balance of the current portion of the provision for maintenance of $4.6 million 
(2018: $4.5 million) (see note 21). 

Labor related provisions include a profit-sharing program for both management and non-management staff. For members of management, profit-sharing 
is based on a combination of the Company’s performance as a whole and the achievement of individual goals. Profit-sharing for non-management 
employees is based solely on the Company’s performance. The accrual at year-end represents the amount expensed for the current year, which is 
expected to be settled within 12 months. 

21. Other long-term liabilities 

Balance at January 1, 2019

Increases
Used
Adjustment
Effect of movements in exchange rates
Unwinding of discount and changes in the discount rate

Balance at December 31, 2019
Current
Non-current

F-58

Provision
for litigations
12,879
$
524
(26) 
—  
(416) 
—  
12,961
—  
12,961
12,961

$

$

Provision
for return
condition
$103,501
24,213
—  
—  
—  
5,300
$133,014
—  
133,014
$133,014

Dismantling
provision
$ 23,848
—  
—  
(367) 
—  
846
$ 24,327
—  
24,327
$ 24,327

Other
long-term
liabilities
$ 25,844
4,307
(4,616) 
—  
—  
—  
$ 25,535
4,616
20,919
$ 25,535

Total
$166,072
29,044
(4,642) 
(367) 
(416) 
6,146
$195,837
4,616
191,221
$195,837

(Continued)

COPA HOLDINGS, S. A. AND SUBSIDIARIES 

Notes to the consolidated financial statements 

Provision for litigation 

Provisions for litigation in process and expected payments related to labor legal cases. 

The Company is the plaintiff in an action in October 2003 against Empresa Brasileira de Infraestrutura Aeroportuária (“INFRAERO”), Brazil’s airport 
operator, the legality of the Additional Airport Tariffs (Adicional das Tarifas Aeroportuárias, or ATAERO), which is a 50% surcharge imposed on all 
airlines which fly to Brazil. Similar suits have been filed against INFRAERO by other major airline carriers. In this case, the court of first instance ruled 
in favor of INFRAERO and the Company has appealed the judgment. While the litigation is still pending, the Company continues to pay the ATAERO 
amounts due into an escrow account and as of December 31, 2019, the aggregate amount in such account totaled $10.4 million (2018: $10.6 million). 

In the event that the Company receives a final unfavorable judgment it will be required to release the escrowed fund to INFRAERO and will not be able 
to recover such amounts. The Company does not, however, expect the release of such amounts to have a material impact on its financial results since 
these amounts already had been expensed. 

Provision for return condition 

For operating leases, the Company is contractually obliged to return aircraft in an agreed-upon condition. The Company accrues for return conditions 
related to aircraft held under operating leases throughout the duration of the lease. The Company does not plan to return aircraft in 2020. 

The unwinding of the discount and changes in the discount rate is expensed as incurred and recognised in the statement of profit or loss as a finance 
cost. 

Dismantling provision 

For leases under IFRS 16 the Company recognizes a dismantling provision to estimate the costs for work required to be performed just before the 
redelivery of the aircraft to the lessors and which does not depend of the aircraft utilization. 

Other long-term liabilities 

Other long-term liabilities include principally the provision for maintenance which mainly include the accrual of formal agreements with third parties 
for operational maintenance events. The cost of these agreements is billed by power by the hour and charged to the consolidated statement of profit or 
loss. As of December 31, 2019, the provision for maintenance amounts to $20.1 million (2018: $22.9 million) and the Company has presented the 
estimated balance of the current portion of this provision as “Accrued expenses payable” in the consolidated statement of financial position (see note 
20). 

Other long-term liabilities also include the provision for the non-compete agreement created for payment to senior management related to covenants not 
to compete with the Company in the future (relative to the $3.0 million trust fund). This provision is accounted for as “Other long-term employee 
benefits” under IAS 19R Employee benefits. The accrued amount is revalued annually using the projected benefit method as required by IAS 19R. 

F-59

(Continued)

COPA HOLDINGS, S. A. AND SUBSIDIARIES 

Notes to the consolidated financial statements 

22.

Income taxes 

Current taxes expense -
Current period
Adjustment for prior period

Deferred taxes expenses -

Origination and reversal of temporary differences

Total income tax expense

2019

2018

2017

$(55,847)  $(35,258)  $(43,034) 

693

261

455

$(55,154)  $(34,997)  $(42,579) 

8,717

(6,731) 
$(46,437)  $(34,530)  $(49,310) 

467

During the year 2018, the deferred tax balances have been re-measured as a result of the change in Colombia’s income tax rate, 32%, 31% and 30% for 
the taxable year, 2020, 2021 and 2022, respectively according to the law N°1943 published on December 28, 2018. Deferred tax expected to reverse in 
the year 2020, has been measured using the effective rate that will apply in Colombia for the period (32%). 

The balances of deferred taxes are as follows: 

Deferred tax liabilities

Maintenance deposits
Prepaid dividend tax
Property and equipment
Other
Set off tax

Deferred tax assets

Provision for return conditions
Air traffic liability
Fuel derivative
Other provisions
Tax loss
Set off tax

Statement of financial
position

2019

2018

Statement of profit or loss
2018

2019

2017

$ 3,277

$(29,863)  $(29,863)  $ —  

$ 2,796
1,671
2,107
(1,962) 
2,879
$(43,397)  $(48,940)  $(5,543)  $(3,525)  $ 7,491

(7,403) 
(2,896) 
(4,690) 
1,455

(5,244) 
(2,136) 
641
(63) 

(8,859) 
(7,396) 
(4,691) 
1,869

(1,456) 
(4,500) 
(1) 

414

$ 10,095
2,039
—  
6,826
1,710
(1,455) 

$ 7,136
1,792
—  
4,687
4,295
(1,869) 

$(2,959)  $
(247) 
—  
(2,139) 
2,585
(414) 

723
(511) 
—  
(271) 
3,054
63
$(3,174)  $ 3,058

$ (253) 
(266) 
107
(272) 
2,803
(2,879) 
$ (760) 

$ 19,215
$(24,182)  $(32,899)  $(8,717)  $ (467)  $ 6,731

$ 16,041

At December 31, 2019 the deferred tax assets include an amount of $1.7 million ($4.3 million at December, 2018) which relates to tax losses carried 
forward of Copa Colombia. During 2019, the subsidiary generated a tax profit. The Company has concluded that the deferred assets will be recoverable 
using the estimated future taxable income based on the approved business plans for the subsidiary. The Company expects to use the remaining tax losses 
within the next two years, however, these tax losses can be carried forward indefinitely. 

The aggregate amount of temporary differences associated with investments in subsidiaries, for which deferred tax liabilities have not been recognized, 
is $272.5 million as of December 31, 2019 (2018: $453.8 million). 

F-60

(Continued)

COPA HOLDINGS, S. A. AND SUBSIDIARIES 

Notes to the consolidated financial statements 

Reconciliation of the effective tax rate is as follows: 

Net income
Total income tax expense

Profit excluding income tax

Income taxes at Panamanian statutory rates
Stations - Taxable / Panama
Stations - Taxable / Non Panama
Stations - Non Taxable / Non Panama
Dividend tax
(Over) under provided in prior periods
Provision for income taxes

23. Accounts and transactions with related parties 

Account receivable -

Panama Air Cargo Terminal
Banco General, S.A.
Petróleos Delta, S.A.
Editora del Caribe, S.A.
Lubricantes Delta, S.A.

Account payable -

Petróleos Delta, S.A.
Assa Compañía de Seguros, S.A.
Panama Air Cargo Terminal
Banco General, S.A.
Motta International, S.A.
Desarrollos Inmobiliarios del Este, S.A.
Cable Onda, S.A.
Galindo, Arias & López

Tax rate

25.0% 
(13.7%) 
2.4% 
(4.9%) 
7.2% 
(0.2%) 
15.8% 

2019
$247,002
46,437
293,439
73,360
(40,205) 
7,043
(14,444) 
21,376

(693) 

$ 46,437

Tax rate

25.0% 
(19.3%) 
9.0% 
3.3% 
10.3% 
(0.2%) 
28.1% 

2018
$ 88,198
34,530
122,728
30,682
(23,745) 
11,052
4,106
12,696

(261) 

$ 34,530

Tax rate

25.0% 
(7.6%) 
1.6% 
(9.4%) 
2.5% 
(0.1%) 
12.0% 

2017
$362,599
49,310
411,909
102,977
(31,272) 
6,447
(38,684) 
10,297

(455) 

$ 49,310

2019

2018

$

101
24
22
—  
—  
$ 147

$13,330
283
250
151
32
20
20
—  
$14,086

$

102
102
10
8
1
$ 223

$12,150
2,224
53
135
48
20
—  
43
$14,673

F-61

(Continued)

COPA HOLDINGS, S. A. AND SUBSIDIARIES 

Notes to the consolidated financial statements 

Transactions with related parties for the year ended December 31 are as follows: 

Related party
Petróleos Delta, S.A.
ASSA Compañía de Seguros, S.A.
Panama Air Cargo Terminal
Profuturo Administradora de Fondos
de Pensión y Cesantía
Desarrollo Inmobiliario del Este, S.A.
Motta International
Cable Onda, S.A.
Galindo, Arias & López
GBM International, Inc.

Global Brands, S.A.
Banco General, S.A.

Transaction
Purchase of jet fuel
Insurance
Handling

Payments
Property leasing
Purchase
Communications
Legal services
Technological
support
Purchase
Interest income

Amount of
transaction
2019
$ 376,765
11,215
3,522

Amount of
transaction
2018
$ 398,733
9,735
5,849

Amount of
transaction
2017
$ 290,172
8,527
4,869

5,145
4,017
1,854
1,396
309

4,716
3,838
1,585
1,687
490

2,386
3,625
1,632
1,448
373

240
108
$ (4,181)

231
55
$ (3,781)

273
79
$ (2,986)

Banco General, S.A.: The Company’s controlling shareholders have a vote and a decision within the board of directors of BG Financial Group, which is 
the controlling company of Banco General. Likewise, Banco General, S. A. owns ProFuturo Administradora de Fondos de Pensión y Cesantía S.A., 
which manages the Company’s reserves for pension purposes. Also the Company has interest receivable by $2.1 million (2018: $1.8 million) due to 
short and long term time deposits in this financial institution. 

Petróleos Delta, S.A.: Since 2005, the fuel company entered into a contract with the Company to meet its jet fuel needs. The contract’s term is four 
years, and the last contract subscribed was on June, 2016. 

As of December 31, 2019, the Company does not maintain guarantee deposits with Petróleos Delta, S. A. (2018: $16.1 million). While the Company’s 
controlling shareholders do not hold a controlling equity interest in Petróleos Delta, S. A., various members of the Company’s Board of Directors are 
also board members of Petróleos Delta, S. A. 

ASSA Compañía de Seguros, S. A.: An insurance company controlled by the Company’s controlling shareholders that provide substantially all of the 
Company’s insurance policies. 

Desarrollo Inmobiliario del Este, S. A.: The Company leases six floors consisting of approximately 121,686 square feet of the building from Desarrollo 
Inmobiliario, an entity controlled by the same group of investors that controls Corporación de Inversiones Aéreas, S. A. (“CIASA”). CIASA owns 100% 
of the class B shares of the Company. This contract is a lease contract under IFRS 16. 

Motta Internacional, S.A. & Global Brands, S. A.: The Company purchases most of the alcohol and other beverages served on its aircraft from Motta 
Internacional, S. A. and Global Brands, S. A., both of which are controlled by the Company’s controlling shareholders. 

GBM International, Inc.: Provides systems integration and computer services, as well as technical services and enterprise management. A member of 
the Company’s Board of Directors is shareholder of GBM International, Inc.

Galindo, Arias & López: Certain partners of Galindo, Arias & López (a law firm) are indirect shareholders of CIASA and serve on the Company’s 
Board of Directors. 

F-62

(Continued)

COPA HOLDINGS, S. A. AND SUBSIDIARIES 

Notes to the consolidated financial statements 

Editora del Caribe, S.A.: this Panamanian publisher is responsible for publishing the official journal of Copa Airlines “Panorama of the Americas”. A 
member of the Company’s Board of Directors is shareholder of Editora del Caribe, S. A. 

Cable Onda, S.A.: The Company is responsible for providing television and internet broadcasting services in Panama. A member of the Company’s 
Board of Directors is shareholder of Cable Onda, S. A. 

Panama Air Cargo Terminal: Provides cargo and courier services in Panama, an entity controlled by the same group of investors that controls CIASA. 

Compensation of key management personnel 

Key management personnel compensation is as follows: 

Short-term employee benefits
Post-employment pension
Share-based payments

2019
$4,969
95
3,246
$8,310

2018
$ 6,104
117
5,092
$11,313

2017
$ 5,133
99
5,524
$10,756

The Company has not set aside any additional funds for future payments to executive officers, other than one pursuant to a non-compete agreement for 
$3.0 million established in 2006 (see note 21). 

24. Equity 

Common stock 

The authorized capital stock consists of 80 million shares of common stock without par value, divided into Class A shares, Class B shares, and Class C 
shares. As of December 31, 2019, the Company had 33,835,747 Class A shares issued (2018: 33,816,276 ) and 31,337,856 shares outstanding (2018: 
31,257,686 ), 10,938,125 Class B shares issued and outstanding (2018: 10,938,125) and no Class C shares outstanding. Class A and Class B shares have 
the same economic rights and privileges, including the right to receive dividends. 

•

Class A shares 

The holders of the Class A shares are not entitled to vote at our shareholders’ meetings, except in connection with the following specific matters: (i) a 
transformation of the Company into another corporate type; (ii) a merger, consolidation, or spin-off of the Company, (iii) a change of corporate purpose; 
(iv) voluntarily delisting Class A shares from the NYSE; (v) and any amendment to the foregoing special voting provisions adversely affecting the 
rights and privileges of the Class A shares. 

•

Class B shares 

Every holder of Class B shares is entitled to one vote per share on all matters for which shareholders are entitled to vote. The Class B shares may only 
be held by Panamanians, and upon registration of any transfer of a Class B share to a holder that does not certify that it is Panamanian, such Class B 
share shall automatically convert into a Class A share. 

Transferees of Class B shares will be required to deliver to the Company a written certification of their status as Panamanian as a condition to 
registering the transfer to them of Class B shares. 

F-63

(Continued)

COPA HOLDINGS, S. A. AND SUBSIDIARIES 

Notes to the consolidated financial statements 

•

Class C shares 

The Independent Directors Committee of the Board of Directors, or the Board of Directors as a whole if applicable, is authorized to issue Class C shares 
to the Class B holders pro rata in proportion to such Class B holders’ ownership of Copa Holdings. The Class C shares will have no economic value and 
will not be transferable except to Class B holders, but will possess such voting rights as the Independent Directors Committee shall deem necessary to 
ensure the effective control of the Company by Panamanians. 

The Class C shares will be redeemable by the Company at such time as the Independent Directors Committee determines that such a triggering event 
shall no longer be in effect. The Class C shares will not be entitled to any dividends or any other economic rights. 

Class A shares are listed on the NYSE under the symbol “CPA.” The Class B shares and Class C shares will not be listed on any stock exchange unless 
the Board of Directors determines that it is in the best interest of the Company to list the Class B shares on the Panama Stock Exchange. 

Dividends 

The payment of dividends on shares is subject to the discretion of the Board of Directors. Under Panamanian law, the Company may pay dividends only 
out of retained earnings and capital surplus. The Articles of Incorporation provides that all dividends declared by the Board of Directors will be paid 
equally with respect to all of the Class A and Class B shares. 

In February 2016, the Board of Directors of the Company approved to change the dividend policy to base the calculation of the payment of yearly 
dividends to shareholders in an amount of up to 40% of the prior year’s annual consolidated underlying net income, distributed in equal quarterly 
installments upon board ratifications. 

In 2019, the Company paid quarterly dividends in the amount of $0.65 per share (2018: $0.87 per share). 

Treasury stock 

When shares recognized as equity are repurchased, the amount of the consideration paid, which includes directly attributable cost net of any tax effects, 
is recognized as a deduction from equity and presented separately in the balance sheet. When treasury shares are sold or reissued subsequently, the 
amount received is recognized as an increase in equity, and the resulting surplus or deficit on the transaction is presented within share premium. 

Since treasury stock is not considered outstanding for share count purposes, it is excluded from average common shares outstanding for basic and 
diluted earnings per share. 

In November, 2014, the Board of Directors of the Company approved a $250 million share repurchase program. Purchases will be made from time to 
time, subject to market and economic conditions, applicable legal requirements, and other relevant factor. Between November 2014 and September 
2015, the Company repurchased 2,310,492 shares for a total amount of $136.4 million. As of December 31, 2019, the Company had $113.6 million 
remaining to purchase shares under its share repurchase program. 

25.

Share-based payments 

The Company has established equity compensation plans under which it administers restricted stock, stock options, and certain other equity-based 
awards to attract, retain, and motivate executive officers, certain key employees, and non-employee directors to compensate them for their contributions 
to the growth and profitability of the Company. Shares delivered under this award program may be sourced from treasury stock, or authorized unissued 
shares. 

F-64

(Continued)

COPA HOLDINGS, S. A. AND SUBSIDIARIES 

Notes to the consolidated financial statements 

The Company’s equity compensation plans are accounted for under IFRS 2 Share-Based Payment (“IFRS 2”). IFRS 2 requires companies to measure 
the cost of employee services received in exchange for an award of equity instruments based on the grant-date fair value of the award or at fair value of 
the award at each reporting date, depending on the type of award granted. The resulting cost is recognized over the period during which an employee is 
required to provide service in exchange for the award, which is usually the vesting period. 

The total compensation cost recognized for non-vested stock and options awards amounts to $6.1 million, $7.1 million, and $7.4 million in 2019, 2018, 
and 2017, respectively, and was recorded as a component of “Wages, salaries, benefits and other employees’ expenses” within operating expenses. 

Non-vested Stock 

The Company approved a non-vested stock bonus award for certain executive officers of the Company. 

F-65

(Continued)

COPA HOLDINGS, S. A. AND SUBSIDIARIES 

Notes to the consolidated financial statements 

A summary of the terms and conditions, properly approved by the Compensation Committee of our Board of Directors, relating to the grants of the 
non-vested stock award under the equity compensation plan is as follows: 

Grant date
April, 2015

June, 2015

February, 2016

February, 2016
May, 2016

February, 2017
February, 2017
February, 2017
February, 2018

February, 2018
February, 2018

July, 2018
February, 2019

June, 2019
June, 2019
August, 2019
December, 2019

Number of
instruments
4,915

5,839

147,000

63,000
7,899

Vesting conditions

15% first three anniversaries
25% fourth
30% fifth anniversary
15% first three anniversaries
25% fourth
30% fifth anniversary
15% first three anniversaries
25% fourth
30% fifth anniversary
Fifth anniversary
15% first three anniversaries
25% fourth
30% fifth anniversary

2,237

21,556
14,379
1,316

22,012 One-third every anniversary
11,980 One-third every anniversary
Third anniversary
7% first month
31% first three anniversaries
33% first three anniversaries
15% first three anniversaries
25% fourth
30% fifth anniversary
Third anniversary
1% first month
33% first three anniversaries
33% first three anniversaries
33% first three anniversaries
33% first three anniversaries
100% first anniversary

15,951
9,256
977
1,039
1,724

6,104

Contractual
life
5 years

5 years

5 years

5 years
5 years

3 years
3 years
3 years

3 years
3 years
5 years

3 years

3 years
3 years
3 years
3 years
1 year

Non-vested stock awards were measured at their fair value on the grant date. For the 2019 grants, the fair value of these non-vested stock awards 
amounts to $96.46 per share (2018: $135.81). 

F-66

(Continued)

COPA HOLDINGS, S. A. AND SUBSIDIARIES 

Notes to the consolidated financial statements 

A summary of the non-vested stock award activity under the plan as of December 31, 2019, 2018 and 2017 with changes during these years is as follows 
(in number of shares): 

Non-vested as of January 1
Granted
Vested
Forfeited
Non-vested as of December 31

2019
271,904
28,947
(80,170) 
(9,476) 

211,205

2018
304,153
43,355
(72,045) 
(3,559) 

271,904

2017
333,183
36,229
(62,224) 
(3,035) 

304,153

The Company uses the accelerated attribution method to recognize the compensation cost for awards with graded vesting periods. The Company 
estimates that the remaining compensation cost, not yet recognized for the non-vested stock awards, amounts to $4.0 million (2018: $9.8 million), with a 
weighted average remaining contractual life of 2.1 years (2018: 2.3 years). Additionally, the Company estimates that the 2020 compensation cost related 
to these plans amounts to $3.2 million. 

The Company plans to make additional equity-based awards under the plan from time to time, including additional non-vested stock and stock option 
awards. The Company anticipates that future employee non-vested stock and stock option awards granted pursuant to the plan will generally vest over a 
three to five year period and the stock options will carry a ten-year term. 

26. Earnings per share 

Basic earnings per share amounts are calculated by dividing the net profit (loss) for the year attributable to ordinary equity holders of the parent by the 
weighted average number of shares outstanding during the year, increased by the number of non-vested dividend participating share-based payment 
awards outstanding during the period. 

Diluted earnings per share amounts are calculated by dividing the net profit (loss) attributable to ordinary equity holders of the parent by the weighted 
average number of ordinary shares outstanding during the year plus the weighted average number of ordinary shares that would be issued on conversion 
of all the dilutive potential ordinary shares into ordinary shares, when the effect of their inclusion is dilutive (decreases earnings per share or increases 
loss per share). 

The computation of the income and share data used in the basic and diluted earnings per share is as follows: 

Basic and diluted earnings per share -

Net income

Weighted-average shares outstanding
Non-vested dividend participating awards

2019

2018

2017

$247,002
42,258
225
42,483
5.81

$88,198
42,182
274
42,456
2.08

$362,599
42,111
308
42,419
8.55

F-67

(Continued)

COPA HOLDINGS, S. A. AND SUBSIDIARIES 

Notes to the consolidated financial statements 

27. Commitments and contingencies 

Purchase contracts 

As of December 31, 2019, the Company had one purchase contract with Boeing entailing sixty five (65) firm orders of Boeing 737 MAX aircraft, 
agreed to be delivered between 2020 and 2025. The aircraft contractual obligations net of discounts and pre-delivery payments, including estimated 
amounts for contractual price escalation, are as follows: 

Year ending December 31, 2020

2021
2022
2023
2024
Thereafter

495,097
567,088
627,409
648,753
504,910
259,097
$3,102,354

As of December 31, 2019 the Company has paid $468.8 million in predelivery deposits of 737 MAX aircraft. 

In March 2019, the FAA issued an order to suspend operations of all Boeing 737 MAX aircraft in the U.S. and by U.S. aircraft operators. Non-U.S. civil 
aviation authorities also issued directives to similar effect as consequence Boeing has suspended deliveries of the Boeing 737 MAX until clearance is 
granted by the appropriate regulatory authorities. As result, delivery of the aircraft is subject to change which may result in certain commitments being 
deferred to later periods. 

Labor unions 

Approximately 61.8% of the Company’s 8,877 employees are unionized. There are currently nine (9) union organizations, five (5) covering employees 
in Panama and four (4) covering employees in Colombia. The Company traditionally had good relations with its employees and with all the unions and 
expects to continue to enjoy good relations with its employees and the unions in the future. 

The five (5) unions covering employees in Panama include the pilots’ union (UNPAC); the flight attendants’ union (SIPANAB); the mechanics’ union 
(SITECMAP), the industry union (SIELAS), which represents ground personnel, messengers, drivers, passenger service agents, counter agents, and 
other non-executive administrative staff, and other industry union named UGETRACA which represents ground personnel and flight attendants. 

Copa entered into collective bargaining agreements with the pilot’s union in July 2017, the industry union in December 2017, the mechanics’ union in 
June 2018 and the flight attendants’ union in October 2018. Copa does not have a collective bargain agreement negotiated with UGETRACA because 
they do not have the eligible amount of employees. 

Collective bargaining agreements in Panama typically have terms of four years. 

The four (4) unions covering employees in Colombia are: the pilots’ union (ACDAC), the flight attendants’ union (ACAV), the industry union 
(SINTRATAC), and the Mechanics Union (ACMA). 

F-68

(Continued)

COPA HOLDINGS, S. A. AND SUBSIDIARIES 

Notes to the consolidated financial statements 

Copa entered into collective bargaining with ACDAC and ACAV in January 2018. ACDAC has not yet resolved and ACAV ended with a new 
arbitration collective document for two years expiring in September 2020. Additionally, SINTRATAC and Copa entered into collective bargaining 
agreement in December 2017 for terms of four years until December 2021. Negotiations with ACMA were resolved by arbitration on December 31, 
2015, extending the validation every 6 months from this date, until June 30, 2018. ACMA has not presented a new bill of petition. 

Typically, collective bargaining agreements in Colombia have terms of two to three years. Although Copa Colombia usually settles many of its 
collective bargaining agreement negotiations through arbitration proceedings, it has traditionally experienced good relations with its unions. 

In addition to unions in Panama and Colombia, the Company’s employees in Brazil are covered by industry union agreements that cover all airline 
industry employees in the country and airport employees in Argentina are affiliated to an industry union (UPADEP). 

Lines of credit for working capital and letters of credit 

The Company maintained letters of credit with several banks with a value of $25.8 million as of December 31, 2019 (2018: $25.9 million). These letters 
of credit are pledged mainly for operating lessors, maintenance providers and airport operators. 

The Company, has short term unsecured credit facilities with financial institutions in the aggregate amount of $305.0 million. These lines of credit have 
been put in place to pre-delivery payments and for working capital purposes. As of December 31, 2019, the Company do not have any outstanding 
borrowings under these credit lines (2018: $140.0 million). 

Tax audit 

The Company received notifications from the tax authorities in Panama and Colombia. The Company, along with its tax advisors, has concluded that it 
is not probable that an outflow of resources embodying economic benefits will be required to settle them, especially considering that the Company has 
enough arguments to support its position and also taking into consideration that both cases are in the preliminary stages. 

28. Financial instruments - Risk management and fair value 

In the normal course of its operations, the Company is exposed to a variety of financial risks: market risk (especially cash flow, currency, commodity 
prices and interest rate risk), credit risks and liquidity risk. The Company has established risk management policies to minimize potential adverse effects 
on the Company’s financial performance: 

28.1 Fuel price risk 

The Company has risks that are common in its industry, related to the price level of aircraft fuel, which can significantly affect its operations, financial 
position and liquidity.     

In the past the Company has entered into financial derivative contracts in an effort to mitigate this risk, but with inconsistent results. The Company has 
not entered into new fuel hedge contracts, and has adopted a new strategy of remaining unhedged, while regularly reviewing its policies based on market 
conditions and others factors. As of December 31, 2019 and 2018, the Company did not have any outstanding fuel hedge contracts. 

F-69

(Continued)

COPA HOLDINGS, S. A. AND SUBSIDIARIES 

Notes to the consolidated financial statements 

The Company’s derivative contracts matured in December 2017, the fair value of derivative was recorded in “Trade, other payables and financial 
liabilities” in 2017 in the consolidated statement of financial position. The Company’s purchases of jet fuel are made primarily from one supplier (see 
note 19). 

Fuel price risk is estimated as a hypothetical 10% increase in the December 31, 2019 cost per gallon of fuel. Based on projected 2020 fuel consumption, 
such an increase would result in an increase to aircraft fuel expense of approximately $64.8 million in 2020 (unaudited). 

28.2 Market risk 

Foreign currency risk 

Foreign exchange risk is originated when the Company performs transactions and maintains monetary assets and liabilities in currencies that are 
different from the functional currency of the Company. Assets and liabilities in foreign currency are translated using the exchange rates at the end of the 
period, except for non-monetary assets and liabilities that are translated at the equivalent cost of the U.S. dollar at the acquisition date and maintained at 
the historical rate. The results of foreign operations are translated using the average exchange rates that were in place during the period. Gains and losses 
deriving from exchange rates are included within “(Loss) Gain on foreign currency fluctuations” in the consolidated statement of profit or loss. 

The majority of the obligations are denominated in U.S. dollars. Since Panama uses the U.S. dollar as legal tender, the majority of the Company’s 
operating expenses are also denominated in U.S. dollars, approximately 67.3% of revenues and 81.3% of expenses. A significant part of our revenue is 
denominated in foreign currencies, including the Brazilian real, Colombian peso and Argentinian peso, which represented 8.7%, 8.3% and 4.8%, 
respectively (2018: 22.7%, 11.4% and 7.2% respectively). 

Generally, the Company’s exposure to most of these foreign currencies, is limited to the period of up to two weeks between the completion of a sale and 
the conversion to U.S. dollar. The following chart summarizes the Company’s foreign currency risk exposure (assets and liabilities denominated in 
foreign currency) as of December 31: 

Assets

Cash and cash equivalents
Investments
Accounts receivable, net
Other assets

Total assets

Liabilities

Accounts payable
Taxes payable
Other liabilities

Total liabilities
Net position

2019

2018

$ 22,818
—  
73,018
15,726
$111,562

51,313
37,137
18,513
$106,963
4,599
$

$ 24,123
2
68,171
19,107
$111,403

48,501
40,243
20,771
$109,515
1,888
$

From time to time the, Company enters into factoring agreements on receivables outstanding on credit card sales in certain countries. 

F-70

(Continued)

COPA HOLDINGS, S. A. AND SUBSIDIARIES 

Notes to the consolidated financial statements 

28.3 Credit risk 

Credit risk is the risk that a counterparty will not meet its obligations under a financial instrument or customer contract, leading to a financial loss. The 
Company is exposed to credit risk from its financing activities, including deposits with banks and investments in financial instruments and from its 
accounts receivable. IFRS 9 requires the Company to recognize an allowance for ECLs for all financial assets not held at fair value through profit or 
loss. 

The carrying amounts of financial assets represent the maximum credit risk. 

Short and long-term investments 

To mitigate the credit risk arising from deposits in bank, the Company only conducts business with financial institutions that have an investment grade 
above BBB- from Standard & Poor’s and liquidity indicators aligning with or above the market average. For the investments in financial instruments, 
different from deposits in bank, the Company requires a grade above A- from Standard & Poor’s. 

The Company has established a policy to perform an assessment, at the end of each quarterly reporting period, of whether a financial instrument’s credit 
risk has increased significantly since initial recognition, by monitoring changes in credit risk ratings published by Standard & Poor’s. 

As the financial instruments are considered to be low risk, the impairment provision is determined at 12-month ECLs using the general approach as 
prescribed by IFRS 9. 

The movement in the allowance for impairment for short and long-term investments at amortized cost for the year ended December 31 was as follows: 

Balance at beginning of year
Reversal/(Additions)

Balance at end of year

Accounts receivable 

2019
$(1,218) 

261

$ (957) 

2018
$(1,120) 
(98) 
$(1,218) 

Regarding credit risk originating from commercial accounts receivable, the Company does not consider it significant since most of the accounts 
receivable can be easily converted into cash, usually in periods no longer than one month. The risk is managed by each business unit subject to the 
Company’s established policy, procedures and control relating to customer credit risk management. Specific credit limits and payment terms have been 
established according to periodic analysis of the client’s payment capacity. 

A considerable amount of the Company’s tickets sales are processed through major credit cards, resulting in accounts receivable that are generally short-
term and usually collected before revenue is recognized. The Company considers that the credit risk associated with these accounts receivable is 
controllable based on the industry’s trends and strong policies and procedures established and followed by the Company. 

As result of the previously explained, the Company evaluates the concentration of risk with respect to trade receivables as low. 

An impairment analysis is performed at each quarterly reporting date using a provision matrix to measure expected credit losses. Loss rates are 
calculated using a ‘roll rate’ method based on the probability of a receivable progressing through successive stages of delinquency to write-off. To 
measure the ECLs, trade receivables have been grouped based on shared credit risk characteristics and the day past due. 

F-71

(Continued)

COPA HOLDINGS, S. A. AND SUBSIDIARIES 

Notes to the consolidated financial statements 

Loss rates are based on actual credit loss experience over the last 12 months and adjusted for forward-looking factors specific to the debtors and the 
economic environment over the expected life of the receivables. 

The Company evaluates the concentration of risk with respect to trade receivables as low, as its customers are located in several jurisdictions and 
operate in largely independent markets. 

Set out below is the information about the credit risk exposure on the Company’s trade receivables using a provision matrix as of December 31: 

Expected credit loss rate
Gross carrying amount
Expected credit loss

Expected credit loss rate
Gross carrying amount
Expected credit loss

Total

Current

<30

2019

Days past due
30-60

0.1% 

2.3% 

3.7% 

$ 137,500 $ 111,779
99
$

5,579 $

$
$

6,170
141

$
$

2,786
104

$
$

60-90

>90

12.0% 
1,636
196

33.3% 

$ 15,129
5,039
$

Total

Current

<30

2018

Days past due
30-60

60-90

>90

0.1% 

16.8% 

$ 122,288 $ 112,394
124
$

5,057 $

$
$

1,799
303

$
$

26.8% 
533
143

$
$

48.1% 
312
150

$
$

59.8% 

7,250
4,337

28.4 Interest rate and cash flow risk 

The income and operating cash flows of the Company are substantially independent of changes in interest rates, because the Company does not have 
significant assets that generate interest except for surplus cash and cash equivalents and short and long-term investments. 

Interest rate risk is originates mainly from long-term debt related to aircraft financing. These long-term lease payments at variable interest rates expose 
the Company to cash flow risk. The Company mitigates this risk by entering into fixed rate financing agreements in at least half of its outstanding debt. 

As of December 31, 2019 and 2018, fixed interest rates range from 1.49% to 4.90%, and the main floating rate is LIBOR. 

The Company’s earnings are affected by changes in interest rates due to the impact of those changes on interest expenses from variable-rate debt 
instruments and operating leases, and on interest income generated from cash and investment balances. If the interest rate average is 10% more in 2020 
than in 2019, the interest expense would increase by approximately $0.9 million and the fair value of the debt would decrease by approximately 
$6.5 million. If interest rates average 10% less in 2020 than in 2019, the interest income from marketable securities would decrease by approximately 
$0.9 million and the fair value of the debt would increase by approximately $6.5 million. These amounts are determined by considering the impact of 
the hypothetical interest rates on the variable-rate debt and marketable securities equivalent balances at December 31, 2019. 

28.5 Liquidity risk 

The Company’s policy requires having sufficient cash to fulfill its obligations. The Company maintains sufficient cash on hand and in banks or cash 
equivalents that are highly liquid. The Company also has credit lines in financial institutions that allow it to withstand potential cash shortages to fulfill 
its short-term commitments (see note 27). 

F-72

(Continued)

COPA HOLDINGS, S. A. AND SUBSIDIARIES 

Notes to the consolidated financial statements 

The table below summarizes the Company’s financial liabilities according to their maturity date. The amounts in the table are the contractual 
undiscounted cash flows. Balances due within twelve months equal their carrying balances as the impact of discounting is not significant. 

December 31, 2019 

Non-derivative financial liabilities

Debt
Lease liabitily
Account payable
Account payable to related parties

December 31, 2018 

Non-derivative financial liabilities

Debt
Lease liability
Account payable
Account payable to related parties

28.6 Equity risk management 

Note

Carrying
amount

Contractual
cash flow

Less than
twelve months

Between 1
and 4 years

More than
4 years

18
14
19
19

$1,055,421
304,564
119,332
14,086
$1,493,403

$1,197,635
329,029
119,332
14,086
$1,660,082

$

$

146,434
107,556
119,332
14,086
387,408

$ 556,257
212,408
—  
—  
$ 768,665

$494,944
9,065
—  
—  
$504,009

Note

Carrying
amount

Contractual
cash flow

Less than
twelve months

Between 1
and 4 years

More than
4 years

18
14
19
19

$1,287,248
375,683
124,962
14,673
$1,802,566

$1,465,223
407,117
124,962
14,673
$2,011,975

$

$

348,654
114,576
124,962
14,673
602,865

$ 529,624
277,513
—  
—  
$ 807,137

$586,945
15,028
—  
—  
$601,973

The Company’s objectives when managing equity are to safeguard the Company’s ability to continue as a going concern in order to provide returns for 
shareholders and benefits for other stakeholders and to maintain an optimal equity structure to reduce the cost of capital. 

Consistent with others in the industry, the Company monitors equity on the basis of the gearing ratio. This ratio is calculated as net debt divided by total 
equity. Net debt is calculated as total borrowings (including current and non-current borrowings as shown in the consolidated statement of financial 
position), less cash and cash equivalents and short-term investments. Total capitalization is calculated as equity as shown in the consolidated statement 
of financial position plus net debt. 

The Company’s gearing ratio (unaudited) is a follows: 

Total debt (note 18)
Less: non-restricted cash and cash equivalents and short-term investments

Net debt
Total equity

Total capitalization
Gearing ratio

2019
$1,055,421

(851,135) 
204,286
1,934,906
2,139,192

2018
$1,287,248

(722,358) 
564,890
1,796,594
2,361,484

9.5% 

23.9% 

F-73

(Continued)

COPA HOLDINGS, S. A. AND SUBSIDIARIES 

Notes to the consolidated financial statements 

28.7 Fair value measurement 

The following table shows the carrying amount and fair values of financial assets and financial liabilities as of December 31: 

Financial assets

Cash and cash equivalents
Short-term investments
Account receivable
Long-term investments

Financial liabilities

Debt
Account payable

Carrying amount

Fair Value

Note

2019

2018

2019

2018

8
9
10
9

18
19

$ 158,732
692,403
131,920
134,347

$ 156,158
566,200
117,231
138,846

$ 158,732
692,403
131,920
155,051

$ 156,158
566,200
117,231
138,349

1,055,421
133,418

1,287,248
139,635

1,063,617
133,418

1,147,248
139,635

The fair value of the financial assets and liabilities is the amount at which the instrument could be exchanged in a current transaction between willing 
parties, other than in a forced or liquidation sale. 

The following methods and assumptions were used to estimate the fair values: 

•

•

•

•

Cash and cash equivalents, short-term investments approximate their carrying amounts largely due to the short-term maturities of these 
instruments. 

Long-term investments in bonds are based on published price quotations in an active market at the reporting date. 

Accounts receivable are evaluated by the Company based on parameters such as interest rates, and risk characteristics. Based on this 
evaluation, allowances are taken into account for the expected losses of these receivables. 

Debt obligations, financial assets, and financial liabilities are estimated by discounting future cash flows using the Company’s current 
incremental borrowing for a similar liability. 

29.

Subsequent events 

Stock Grants 

During the first quarter of 2020, the Compensation Committee of the Company’s Board of Directors approved two awards. Awards under these plans 
will grant approximately 50,381 shares of non-vested stock, which will vest over a period of three years. The Company estimates the fair value of these 
awards to be approximately $5.4 million and the 2020 compensation cost for these plans will be $2.5 million. 

Taxes 

In February 2020, the Company received two notifications from the tax authority in Panama related to a tax audit process that began in 2019. The 
notification includes potentially significant adjustments to the reported dividend tax for the years 2012 to 2016 and income tax 2016. The Company has 
filed an administrative appeal which is the first legal stage under Panamanian laws. The Company, along with its tax advisors, has concluded that is 
probable that the Company’s tax position will be upheld. As a result, is not probable that the Company will incur any significant additional tax as a 
result. According to Panamanian laws, the statute of limitations is 3 and 15 years for income tax and dividend tax, respectively. 

F-74

(Continued)

COPA HOLDINGS, S. A. AND SUBSIDIARIES 

Notes to the consolidated financial statements 

Coronavirus 2019 (COVID-19) 

In December 2019, a novel strain of coronavirus (“COVID-19”) was reported in Wuhan, China. The virus has promulgated significantly outside China, 
and now exists in most of the world. As a result, the World Health Organization has declared COVID-19 a pandemic. In addition, on March 13, 2020 
the U.S. government declared a state of emergency and took some important actions including enhanced screenings, quarantine requirements and travel 
restrictions to certain countries. Additionally, on March 19, 2020 the government of Panama issued a decree suspending all commercial passenger 
flights to and from Panama for a period of one month effective March 22, 2020. Other countries have put in place similar measures. 

As of the date of this report, the Company is experiencing decline in medium-term demand as evidenced by a significant reduction in forward sales over 
the next few months, with declines of as much as 80% compared to forward sales during the same period the previous year. 

Following the suspension of its operations, the Company implemented certain initiatives, including cost savings, deferral of the company’s non-essential 
capital expenditures, and the drawing of $300 million from short and medium-term liquidity facilities. 

The extent of the impact of the COVID-19 on the Company’s operational and financial performance will depend on future developments, including the 
duration and spread of the outbreak and related travel advisories and restrictions and the impact of the COVID-19 on overall demand for air travel, all of 
which are highly uncertain and cannot be predicted. If traffic on the Company’s routes were to remain at these levels for an extended period, and/or 
routes in other parts of the Company’s network begin to see significant declines in demand, the results of operations for 2020 would be materially 
adversely affected, and the Company may have to take additional actions to preserve our long- term sustainability. 

Uncertainty related to going concern 

As a result of the COVID-19 global pandemic which is affecting the entire aviation industry, the Company has implemented several measures to raise 
and maintain very robust liquidity levels, including the acceleration of collection of its accounts receivable through higher factoring levels, negotiating 
longer payment terms with its main suppliers, as well as drawing on currently available lines of credit, for approximately $300 million. The Company 
also can access additional funding through the refinancing of its unencumbered aircraft and engines and aircraft spare parts, as well as requesting 
advances from banks secured by future maturities of investments (time deposits and fixed income instruments), which could generate an additional 
inflow for approximately $400 million. This additional $700 million would increase the cash position which as of March 15, 2020 was around $1.0 
billion. The Company is also reducing operational expenses and non-essential capital expenditure outflows, and it expects to decrease its monthly cash 
burn ratio to approximately $70 million per month for the remainder of 2020. The Company anticipates that these initiatives to obtain additional sources 
of liquidity, along with measures to contain operational expenses and non-essential capex outflows, will provide ample resources to endure a prolonged 
downturn in demand. 

Credit card processors 

Due to the decrease in sales during the first quarter of 2020, the Company liquidity could be adversely impacted in the event one or more of its credit 
card processors were to impose material reserve requirements for payments due to the Company from credit card transactions. 

The Company has agreements with financial institutions that process customer credit card transactions for the sale of air travel and other services. Under 
certain of the Company’s credit card processing agreements, the financial institutions in certain circumstances have the right to require that the 
Company maintains a reserve equal to a portion of advance ticket sales that has been processed by that financial institution, but for which the Company 
has not yet provided the air transportation. Such financial institutions may require additional cash or other collateral reserves to be established or 
additional withholding of payments related to receivables collected if the Company does not maintain certain minimum levels of unrestricted cash, cash 
equivalents and short-term investments (collectively, “Unrestricted Liquidity”).

The Company follows a policy of giving passengers credit to be redeemed in future dates instead of providing refunds, in those jurisdictions where 
permitted. This helps the Company maintain healthy levels of Unrestricted Liquidity. 

F-75

(Continued)

DESCRIPTION OF SECURITIES 

Exhibit 2.d 

The following is a summary of the material terms of Copa Holding’s capital stock and a brief summary of certain significant provisions of Copa 
Holding’s Articles of Incorporation. This description contains all material information concerning the common stock but does not purport to be 
complete. For additional information regarding the common stock, reference is made to the Articles of Incorporation, a copy of which has been attached 
as an exhibit to our annual report on Form 20-F. 

For purposes of this section only, reference to “our” or “the Company” shall refer only to Copa Holdings and references to “Panamanians” shall refer to 
those entities or natural persons that are considered Panamanian nationals under the Panamanian Aviation Act, as it may be amended or interpreted. 

Common Stock 

Our authorized capital stock consists of 80 million shares of common stock without par value, divided into Class A shares, Class B shares and Class C 
shares. As of December 31, 2019, we had 33,835,747 Class A shares issued and 31,337,856 Class A shares outstanding; 10,938,125 Class B shares 
issued and outstanding, and no Class C shares outstanding. Class A and Class B shares have the same economic rights and privileges, including the right 
to receive dividends, except as described in this section. 

Class A Shares 

The holders of the Class A shares are not entitled to vote at our shareholders’ meetings, except in connection with the 

following specific matters: 

•

•

•

•

•

•

a transformation of Copa Holdings into another corporate type; 

a merger, consolidation or spin-off of Copa Holdings; 

a change of corporate purpose; 

voluntarily delisting Class A shares from the NYSE; 

approving the nomination of Independent Directors nominated by our board of director’s Nominating and Corporate Governance 
Committee; and 

any amendment to the foregoing special voting provisions adversely affecting the rights and privileges of the Class A shares. 

At least 30 days prior to taking any of the actions listed above, we must give notice to the Class A and Class B shareholders of our intention to do so. If 
requested by shareholders representing at least 5% of our outstanding shares, the Board of Directors shall call an extraordinary shareholders’ meeting to 
approve such action. At the extraordinary shareholders’ meeting, shareholders representing a majority of all of the outstanding shares must approve a 
resolution authorizing the proposed action. For such purpose, every holder of our shares is entitled to one vote per share. See below under 
“—Shareholders Meetings”. 

The Class A shareholders will acquire full voting rights, entitled to one vote per Class A share on all matters upon which shareholders are entitled to 
vote, if in the future our Class B shares ever represent fewer than 10% of the total number of shares of our common stock and the Independent Directors 
Committee shall have determined that such additional voting rights of Class A shareholders would not cause a triggering event referred to below. In 
such event, the right of the Class A shareholders to vote on the specific matters described in the preceding paragraph will no longer be applicable. The 
10% threshold described in the first sentence of this paragraph will be calculated without giving effect to any newly issued shares sold with the approval 
of the Independent Directors Committee. 

At such time, if any, as the Class A shareholders acquire full voting rights, the Board of Directors shall call an extraordinary shareholders’ meeting to be 
held within 90 days following the date as of which the Class A shares are entitled to vote on all matters at our shareholders’ meetings. At the 
extraordinary shareholders’ meeting, the shareholders shall vote to elect all 11 members of the Board of Directors in a slate recommended by the 
Nominating and Governance Committee. The terms of office of the directors that were serving prior to the extraordinary shareholders’ meeting shall 
terminate upon the election held at that meeting. 

Class B Shares 

Every holder of Class B shares is entitled to one vote per share on all matters for which shareholders are entitled to vote. Class B shares will be 
automatically converted into Class A shares upon the registration of transfer of such shares to holders which are not Panamanian as described below 
under “—Restrictions on Transfer of Common Stock; Conversion of Class B Shares”. 

Class C Shares 

Upon the occurrence and during the continuance of a triggering event described below in “—Aviation Rights Protections”, the Independent Directors 
Committee of our Board of Directors, or the Board of Directors as a whole if applicable, are authorized to issue Class C shares to the Class B holders 
pro rata in proportion to such Class B holders’ ownership of Copa Holdings. The Class C shares will have no economic value and will not be 
transferable except to Class B holders, but will possess such voting rights as the Independent Directors Committee shall deem necessary to ensure the 
effective control of the Company by Panamanians. The Class C shares will be redeemable by the Company at such time as the Independent Directors 
Committee determines that such a triggering event shall no longer be in effect. The Class C shares will not be entitled to any dividends or any other 
economic rights. 

Restrictions on Transfer of Common Stock; Conversion of Class B Shares 

The Class B shares may only be held by Panamanians, and upon registration of any transfer of a Class B share to a holder that does not certify that it is 
Panamanian, such Class B share shall automatically convert into a Class A share. Transferees of Class B shares will be required to deliver to us written 
certification of their status as a Panamanian as a condition to registering the transfer to them of Class B shares. Class A shareholders will not be required 
or entitled to provide such certification. If a Class B shareholder intends to sell any Class B shares to a person that has not delivered a certification as to 
Panamanian nationality and immediately after giving effect to such proposed transfer the outstanding Class B shares would represent less than 10% of 
our outstanding stock (excluding newly issued shares sold with the approval of our Independent Directors Committee), the selling shareholder must 
inform the Board of Directors at least ten days prior to such transfer. The Independent Directors Committee may determine to refuse to register the 
transfer if the Committee reasonably concludes, on the basis of the advice of a reputable external aeronautical counsel, that such transfer would be 
reasonably likely to cause a triggering event as described below. After the first shareholders’ meeting at which the Class A shareholders are entitled to 
vote for the election of our directors, the role of the Independent Directors described in the preceding sentence shall be exercised by the entire Board of 
Directors acting as a whole. 

Also, the Board of Directors may refuse to register a transfer of stock if the transfer violates any provision of the Articles of Incorporation. 

Tag-along Rights 

Our Board of Directors shall refuse to register any transfer of shares in which CIASA proposes to sell Class B shares pursuant to a sale at a price per 
share that is greater than the average public trading price per share of the Class A shares for the preceding 30 days to an unrelated third-party that would, 
after giving effect to such sale, have the right to elect a majority of the Board of Directors and direct our management and policies, unless the proposed 
purchaser agrees to make, as promptly as possible, a public offer for the purchase of all outstanding Class A shares and Class B shares at a price per 
share equal to the price per share paid for the shares being sold by CIASA. While our Articles of Incorporation provide limited rights to holders of our 
Class A shares to sell their shares at the same price as CIASA 

2 

in the event that a sale of Class B shares by CIASA results in the purchaser having the right to elect a majority of our board, there are other change of 
control transactions in which holders of our Class A shares would not have the right to participate, including the sale of interests by a party that had 
previously acquired Class B shares from CIASA, the sale of interests by another party in conjunction with a sale by CIASA, the sale by CIASA of 
control to more than one party, or the sale of controlling interests in CIASA itself. 

Aviation Rights Protections 

The Panamanian Aviation Act, including the related decrees and regulations, and the bilateral treaties between Panama and other countries that allow us 
to fly to those countries require that Panamanians exercise “effective control” of Copa and maintain “significant ownership” of the airline. The 
Independent Directors Committee has certain powers under our Articles of Incorporation to ensure that certain levels of ownership and control of Copa 
Holdings remain in the hands of Panamanians upon the occurrence of certain triggering events referred to below. 

In the event that the Class B shareholders represent less than 10% of the total share capital of the Company (excluding newly issued shares sold with the 
approval of our Independent Directors Committee) and the Independent Directors Committee determines that it is reasonably likely that Copa’s or Copa 
Holdings’ legal ability to engage in the aviation business or to exercise its international route rights will be revoked, suspended or materially inhibited in 
a manner that would materially and adversely affect the Company, in each case as a result of such non-Panamanian ownership (each a triggering event), 
the Independent Directors Committee may take either or both of the following actions: 

authorize the issuance of additional Class B shares to Panamanians at a price determined by the Independent Directors to reflect the 
current market value of such shares or 

authorize the issuance to Class B shareholders such number of Class C shares as the Independent Directors Committee, or the Board of 
Directors if applicable, deems necessary and with such other terms and conditions established by the Independent Directors Committee 
that do not confer economic rights on the Class C shares. 

•

•

Dividends 

The payment of dividends on our shares is subject to the discretion of our Board of Directors. Under Panamanian law, we may pay dividends only out of 
retained earnings and capital surplus. Our Articles of Incorporation provide that all dividends declared by our Board of Directors will be paid equally 
with respect to all of the Class A and Class B shares. Our Board of Directors has adopted a dividend policy that provides for the payment of equal 
quarterly dividends, which amounts up to 40% of the previous year’s consolidated underlying net income to Class A and Class B shareholders. Our 
Board of Directors may, in its sole discretion and for any reason, amend or discontinue the dividend policy. Our Board of Directors may change the 
level of dividends provided for in this dividend policy or entirely discontinue the payment of dividends. 

Shareholder Meetings 

Ordinary Meetings 

Our Articles of Incorporation require us to hold an ordinary annual meeting of shareholders within the first five months of each fiscal year. The ordinary 
annual meeting of shareholders is the corporate body that elects the Board of Directors, approves the annual financial statements of Copa Holdings and 
approves any other matter that does not require an extraordinary shareholders’ meeting. Shareholders representing at least 5% of the issued and 
outstanding common stock entitled to vote may submit proposals to be included in such ordinary shareholders meeting, provided the proposal is 
submitted at least 45 days prior to the meeting. 

Extraordinary Meetings 

Extraordinary meetings may be called by the Board of Directors when deemed appropriate. Ordinary and extraordinary meetings must be called by the 
Board of Directors when requested by shareholders representing at least 5% of the issued shares entitled to vote at such meeting. Only matters that have 
been described in the notice of an extraordinary meeting may be dealt with at that extraordinary meeting. 

3 

Vote required 

Resolutions are passed at shareholders’ meetings by the affirmative vote of a majority of those shares entitled to vote at such meeting and present or 
represented at the meeting. 

Notice and Location 

Notice to convene the ordinary annual meeting or extraordinary meeting is given by publication in at least one national newspaper in Panama and at 
least one national newspaper widely read in New York City not less than 30 days in advance of the meeting. We intend to publish such official notices 
in a national journal recognized by the NYSE. 

Shareholders’ meetings are to be held in Panama City, Panama unless otherwise specified by the Board of Directors. 

Quorum 

Generally, a quorum for a shareholders’ meeting is established by the presence, in person or by proxy, of shareholders representing a simple majority of 
the issued shares eligible to vote on any actions to be considered at such meeting. If a quorum is not present at the first meeting and the original notice 
for such meeting so provides, the meeting can be immediately reconvened on the same day and, upon the meeting being reconvened, shareholders 
present or represented at the reconvened meeting are deemed to constitute a quorum regardless of the percentage of the shares represented. 

Proxy Representation 

Our Articles of Incorporation provide that, for so long as the Class A shares do not have full voting rights, each holder, by owning our Class A shares, 
grants a general proxy to the Chairman of our Board of Directors or any person designated by our Chairman to represent them and vote their shares on 
their behalf at any shareholders’ meeting, provided that due notice was made of such meeting and that no specific proxy revoking or replacing the 
general proxy has been received from such holder prior to the meeting in accordance with the instructions provided by the notice. 

Other Shareholder Rights 

As a general principle, Panamanian law bars the majority of a corporation’s shareholders from imposing resolutions which violate its articles of 
incorporation or the law, and grants any shareholder the right to challenge, within 30 days, any shareholders’ resolution that is illegal or that violates its 
articles of incorporation or by-laws, by requesting the annulment of said resolution and/or the injunction thereof pending judicial decision. Minority 
shareholders representing at least 5% of all issued and outstanding shares have the right to require a judge to call a shareholders’ meeting and to appoint 
an independent auditor to examine the corporate accounting books, the background of the Company’s incorporation or its operation. 

Shareholders have no pre-emptive rights on the issue of new shares. 

Our Articles of Incorporation provide that directors will be elected in staggered two-year terms, which may have the effect of discouraging certain 
changes of control. 

Listing 

Our Class A shares have been listed on the NYSE under the symbol “CPA” since December 14,2005. The Class B shares and Class C shares will not be 
listed on any exchange unless the Board of Directors determines that it is in the best interest of the Company to list the Class B shares on the Panama 
Stock Exchange. 

4 

Transfer Agent and Registrar 

The transfer agent and registrar for our Class A shares is Computershare Inc. Until the Board of Directors otherwise provides, the transfer agent for our 
Class B shares and any Class C shares is Galindo, Arias & Lopez, who maintains the share register for each class in Panama. Transfers of Class B shares 
must be accompanied by a certification of the transferee that such transferee is Panamanian. 

Summary of Significant Differences between Shareholders’ Rights and Other Corporate Governance Matters Under Panamanian Corporation Law 
and Delaware Corporation Law 

Copa Holdings is a Panamanian corporation (sociedad anónima). The Panamanian corporation law was originally modeled after the Delaware General 
Corporation Law. As such, many of the provisions applicable to Panamanian and Delaware corporations are substantially similar, including (1) a 
director’s fiduciary duties of care and loyalty to the corporation, (2) a lack of limits on the number of terms a person may serve on the board of directors, 
(3) provisions allowing shareholders to vote by proxy and (4) cumulative voting if provided for in the articles of incorporation. The following table 
highlights the most significant provisions that materially differ between Panamanian corporation law and Delaware corporation law. 

Panama

Delaware

Directors

Conflict of Interest Transactions. Transactions involving a Panamanian 
corporation and an interested director or officer are initially subject to the 
approval of the board of directors.

Conflict of Interest Transactions. Transactions involving a Delaware 
corporation and an interested director of that corporation are generally 
permitted if:

At the next shareholders’ meeting, shareholders will then have the right to 
disapprove the board of directors’ decision and to decide to take legal actions 
against the directors or officers who voted in favor of the transaction.

(1) the material facts as to the interested director’s relationship or interest 
are disclosed and a majority of disinterested directors approve the 
transaction;

Terms. Panamanian law does not set limits on the length of the terms that a 
director may serve. Staggered terms are allowed but not required.

(2) the material facts are disclosed as to the interested director’s 
relationship or interest and the stockholders approve the transaction; or

(3) the transaction is fair to the corporation at the time it is authorized by 
the board of directors, a committee of the board of directors or the 
stockholders.

Terms. The Delaware General Corporation Law generally provides for a 
one-year term for directors. However, the directorships may be divided 
into up to three classes with up to three-year terms, with the years for 
each class expiring in different years, if permitted by the articles of 
incorporation, an initial by-law or a by-law adopted by the shareholders.

Number. The board of directors must consist of a minimum of three 
members, which could be natural persons or legal entities.

Number. The board of directors must consist of a minimum of one 
member.

Authority to Take Actions. In general, a simple majority of the board of 
directors is necessary and sufficient to take any action on behalf of the board 
of directors.

Authority to Take Actions. The articles of incorporation or by-laws can 
establish certain actions that require the approval of more than a majority 
of directors.

Shareholder Meetings and Voting Rights

Quorum. The quorum for shareholder meetings must be set by the articles of 
incorporation or the by-laws. If the articles of incorporation and the notice for 
a given meeting so provide, if a quorum is not met a new meeting can be 
immediately called and a quorum shall consist of those present at such new 
meeting.

Quorum. For stock corporations, the articles of incorporation or bylaws 
may specify the number to constitute a quorum but in no event shall a 
quorum consist of less than one-third of shares entitled to vote at a 
meeting. In the absence of such specifications, a majority of shares 
entitled to vote shall constitute a quorum.

5 

Action by Written Consent. Panamanian law does not permit shareholder 
action without formally calling a meeting.

Panama

Delaware
Action by Written Consent. Unless otherwise provided in the articles of 
incorporation, any action required or permitted to be taken at any annual 
meeting or special meeting of stockholders of a corporation may be 
taken without a meeting, without prior notice and without a vote, if a 
consent or consents in writing, setting forth the action to be so taken, is 
signed by the holders of outstanding shares having not less than the 
minimum number of votes that would be necessary to authorize or take 
such action at a meeting at which all shares entitled to vote thereon were 
present and noted.

Other Shareholder Rights

Shareholder Proposals. Shareholders representing 5% of the issued and 
outstanding capital of the corporation have the right to require a judge to call 
a general shareholders’ meeting and to propose the matters for vote.

Appraisal Rights. Shareholders of a Panamanian corporation do not have the 
right to demand payment in cash of the judicially determined fair value of 
their shares in connection with a merger or consolidation involving the 
corporation. Nevertheless, in a merger, the majority of shareholders could 
approve the total or partial distribution of cash, instead of shares, of the 
surviving entity.

Shareholder Derivative Actions. Any shareholder, with the consent of the 
majority of the shareholders, can sue on behalf of the corporation, the 
directors of the corporation for a breach of their duties of care and loyalty to 
the corporation or a violation of the law, the articles of incorporation or the 
by-laws.

Inspection of Corporate Records. Shareholders representing at least 5% of 
the issued and outstanding shares of the corporation have the right to require 
a judge to appoint an independent auditor to examine the corporate 
accounting books, the background of the Company’s incorporation or its 
operation.

Shareholder Proposals. Delaware law does not specifically grant 
shareholders the right to bring business before an annual or special 
meeting. If a Delaware corporation is subject to the SEC’s proxy rules, a 
shareholder who has continuously owned at least $2,000 in market value, 
or 1% of the corporation’s securities entitled to vote for at least one year, 
may propose a matter for a vote at an annual or special meeting in 
accordance with those rules.

Appraisal Rights. Delaware law affords shareholders in certain cases the 
right to demand payment in cash of the judicially-determined fair value 
of their shares in connection with a merger or consolidation involving 
their corporation. However, no appraisal rights are available if, among 
other things and subject to certain exceptions, such shares were listed on 
a national securities exchange or such shares were held of record by 
more than 2,000 holders.

Shareholder Derivative Actions. Subject to certain requirements that a 
shareholder make prior demand on the board of directors or have an 
excuse not to make such demand, a shareholder may bring a derivative 
action on behalf of the corporation to enforce the rights of the 
corporation against officers, directors and third parties. An individual 
may also commence a class action suit on behalf of himself and other 
similarly-situated stockholders if the requirements for maintaining a 
class action under the Delaware General Corporation Law have been 
met. Subject to equitable principles, a three-year period of limitations 
generally applies to such shareholder suits against officers and directors.

Inspection of Corporate Records. A shareholder may inspect or obtain 
copies of a corporation’s shareholder list and its other books and records 
for any purpose reasonably related to a person’s interest as a shareholder.

Anti-Takeover Provisions

Panamanian corporations may include in their articles of incorporation or 
by-laws classified board and super-majority provisions.

Delaware corporations may have a classified board, super-majority 
voting and shareholders’ rights plan.

Panamanian corporation law’s anti-takeover provisions apply only to 
companies that are:

(1) registered with the Superintendence of the Securities Market 
(Superintendencia del Mercado de Valores, or SMV) for a period of six 
months before the public offering,

Unless Delaware corporations specifically elect otherwise, Delaware 
corporations may not enter into a “business combination”, including 
mergers, sales and leases of assets, issuances of securities and similar 
transactions, with an “interested stockholder”, or one that beneficially 
owns 15% or more of a corporation’s voting stock, within three years of 
such person becoming an interested shareholder unless:

(2) have over 3,000 shareholders, and

6 

Panama

Delaware

(1) the transaction that will cause the person to become an interested 
shareholder is approved by the board of directors of the target prior to 
the transactions;

(2) after the completion of the transaction in which the person becomes 
an interested shareholder, the interested shareholder holds at least 85% 
of the voting stock of the corporation not including shares owned by 
persons who are directors and also officers of interested shareholders and 
shares owned by specified employee benefit plans; or

(3) after the person becomes an interested shareholder, the business 
combination is approved by the board of directors of the corporation and 
holders of at least 66.67% of the outstanding voting stock, excluding 
shares held by the interested shareholder.

(3) have a permanent office in Panama with full time employees and 
investments in the country for more than $1,000,000.

These provisions are triggered when a buyer makes a public offer to acquire 
5% or more of any class of shares with a market value of at least $5,000,000. 
In sum, the buyer must deliver to the corporation a complete and accurate 
statement that includes

(1) the name of the Company, the number of the shares that the buyer intends 
to acquire and the purchase price;

(2) the identity and background of the person acquiring the shares;

(3) the source and amount of the funds or other goods that will be used to pay 
the purchase price;

(4) the plans or project the buyer has once it has acquired the control of the 
Company;

(5) the number of shares of the Company that the buyer already has or is a 
beneficiary of and those owned by any of its directors, officers, subsidiaries, 
or partners or the same, and any transactions made regarding the shares in the 
last 60 days;

(6) contracts, agreements, business relations or negotiations regarding 
securities issued by the Company in which the buyer is a party;

(7) contracts, agreements, business relations or negotiations between the 
buyer and any director, officer or beneficiary of the securities; and

(8) any other significant information. This declaration will be accompanied 
by, among other things, a copy of the buyer’s financial statements.

If the board of directors believes that the statement does not contain all 
required information or that the statement is inaccurate, the board of directors 
must send the statement to the SMV within 45 days from the buyer’s initial 
delivery of the statement to the SMV. The SMV may then hold a public 
hearing to determine if the information is accurate and complete and if the 
buyer has complied with the legal requirements. The SMV may also start an 
inquiry into the case, having the power to decide whether or not the offer may 
be made.

Regardless of the above, the board of directors has the authority to submit the 
offer to the consideration of the shareholders. The board should only convene 
a shareholders’ meeting when it deems the statement delivered by the offeror 
to be complete and accurate. If convened, the shareholders’ meeting should 
take place within the next 30 days. At the shareholders’ meeting, two-thirds 
of the holders of the issued and outstanding shares of each class of shares of 
the corporation with a right to vote must approve the offer and the offer is to 
be executed within 60 days from the shareholders’ approval. If the board 
decides not to convene the shareholders’ meeting within 15 days following 
the receipt of a complete and accurate statement from the offeror, shares may 
then be purchased. In all cases, the purchase of shares can take place only if it 
is not prohibited by an administrative or judicial order or injunction.

7 

Panama
The law also establishes some actions or recourses of the sellers against the 
buyer in cases the offer is made in contravention of the law.

Delaware

Previously Acquired Rights

No comparable provisions exist under Delaware law.

In no event can the vote of the majority shareholders deprive the shareholders 
of a corporation of previously-acquired rights. Panamanian jurisprudence and 
doctrine has established that the majority shareholders cannot amend the 
articles of incorporation and deprive minority shareholders of previously-
acquired rights nor impose upon them an agreement that is contrary to those 
articles of incorporation.

Once a share is issued, the shareholders become entitled to the rights 
established in the articles of incorporation and such rights cannot be taken 
away, diminished or extinguished without the express consent of the 
shareholders entitled to such rights. If by amending the articles of 
incorporation, the rights granted to a class of shareholders is somehow altered 
or modified to their disadvantage, those shareholders will need to approve the 
amendment unanimously.

8 

EXHIBIT 12.1 

I, Pedro Heilbron, certify that: 

Certification 

1.

2.

3.

4.

I have reviewed this annual report on Form 20-F of Copa Holdings, S.A.; 

Based on my knowledge, this report does not contain any untrue statement of a material fact or omit to state a material fact necessary to 
make the statements made, in light of the circumstances under which such statements were made, not misleading with respect to the period 
covered by this report; 

Based on my knowledge, the financial statements, and other financial information included in this report, fairly present in all material 
respects the financial condition, results of operations and cash flows of the company as of, and for, the periods presented in this report; 

The company’s other certifying officer(s) and I are responsible for establishing and maintaining disclosure controls and procedures (as 
defined in Exchange Act Rules 13a-15(e) and 15d-15(e)) and internal control over financial reporting (as defined in Exchange Act 
Rules 13a-15(f) and 15d-15(f)) for the company and have: 

(a) Designed such disclosure controls and procedures, or caused such disclosure controls and procedures to be designed under our 
supervision, to ensure that material information relating to the company, including its consolidated subsidiaries, is made known to us 
by others within those entities, particularly during the period in which this report is being prepared; 

(b) Designed such internal control over financial reporting, or caused such internal control over financial reporting to be designed 
under our supervision, to provide reasonable assurance regarding the reliability of financial reporting and the preparation of financial 
statements for external purposes in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles; 

(c) Evaluated the effectiveness of the company’s disclosure controls and procedures and presented in this report our conclusions 
about the effectiveness of the disclosure controls and procedures, as of the end of the period covered by this report based on such 
evaluation; and 

(d) Disclosed in this report any change in the company’s internal control over financial reporting that occurred during the period 
covered by the annual report that has materially affected, or is reasonably likely to materially affect, the company’s internal control 
over financial reporting; and 

5.

The company’s other certifying officer(s) and I have disclosed, based on our most recent evaluation of internal control over financial 
reporting, to the company’s auditors and the audit committee of the company’s board of directors (or persons performing the equivalent 
functions): 

(a) All significant deficiencies and material weaknesses in the design or operation of internal control over financial reporting which 
are reasonably likely to adversely affect the company’s ability to record, process, summarize and report financial information; and 

(b) Any fraud, whether or not material, that involves management or other employees who have a significant role in the company’s 
internal control over financial reporting. 

Date: April 8, 2020 

/s/ Pedro Heilbron
Pedro Heilbron
Chief Executive Officer

(Section 302 CEO Certification) 

EXHIBIT 12.2 

I, Jose Montero, certify that: 

Certification 

1.

2.

3.

4.

I have reviewed this annual report on Form 20-F of Copa Holdings, S.A.; 

Based on my knowledge, this report does not contain any untrue statement of a material fact or omit to state a material fact necessary to 
make the statements made, in light of the circumstances under which such statements were made, not misleading with respect to the period 
covered by this report; 

Based on my knowledge, the financial statements, and other financial information included in this report, fairly present in all material 
respects the financial condition, results of operations and cash flows of the company as of, and for, the periods presented in this report; 

The company’s other certifying officer(s) and I are responsible for establishing and maintaining disclosure controls and procedures (as 
defined in Exchange Act Rules 13a-15(e) and 15d-15(e)) and internal control over financial reporting (as defined in Exchange Act 
Rules 13a-15(f) and 15d-15(f)) for the company and have: 

(a) Designed such disclosure controls and procedures, or caused such disclosure controls and procedures to be designed under our 
supervision, to ensure that material information relating to the company, including its consolidated subsidiaries, is made known to us 
by others within those entities, particularly during the period in which this report is being prepared; 

(b) Designed such internal control over financial reporting, or caused such internal control over financial reporting to be designed 
under our supervision, to provide reasonable assurance regarding the reliability of financial reporting and the preparation of financial 
statements for external purposes in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles; 

(c) Evaluated the effectiveness of the company’s disclosure controls and procedures and presented in this report our conclusions 
about the effectiveness of the disclosure controls and procedures, as of the end of the period covered by this report based on such 
evaluation; and 

(d) Disclosed in this report any change in the company’s internal control over financial reporting that occurred during the period 
covered by the annual report that has materially affected, or is reasonably likely to materially affect, the company’s internal control 
over financial reporting; and 

5.

The company’s other certifying officer(s) and I have disclosed, based on our most recent evaluation of internal control over financial 
reporting, to the company’s auditors and the audit committee of the company’s board of directors (or persons performing the equivalent 
functions): 

(a) All significant deficiencies and material weaknesses in the design or operation of internal control over financial reporting which 
are reasonably likely to adversely affect the company’s ability to record, process, summarize and report financial information; and 

(b) Any fraud, whether or not material, that involves management or other employees who have a significant role in the company’s 
internal control over financial reporting. 

Date: April 8, 2020 

/s/ Jose Montero
Jose Montero
Chief Financial Officer

(Section 302 CFO Certification) 

Certification 
Pursuant to Section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002 
(Subsections (a) and (b) of Section 1350, Chapter 63 of Title 18, United States Code) 

EXHIBIT 13.1 

Pursuant to section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002 (subsections (a) and (b) of section 1350, chapter 63 of title 18, United States Code), 

each of the undersigned officers of Copa Holdings, S.A. (the “Company”), does hereby certify, to such officer’s knowledge, that: 

The Annual Report on Form 20-F for the year ended December 31, 2019 of the Company fully complies with the requirements of section 13(a) or 

section 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 and information contained in the Form 20-F fairly presents, in all material respects, the financial 
condition and results of operations of the Company. 

Dated: April 8, 2020 

/s/ Pedro Heilbron
Pedro Heilbron
Chief Executive Officer

(Section 906 CEO Certification) 

Certification 
Pursuant to Section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002 
(Subsections (a) and (b) of Section 1350, Chapter 63 of Title 18, United States Code) 

EXHIBIT 13.2 

Pursuant to section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002 (subsections (a) and (b) of section 1350, chapter 63 of title 18, United States Code), 

each of the undersigned officers of Copa Holdings, S.A. (the “Company”), does hereby certify, to such officer’s knowledge, that: 

The Annual Report on Form 20-F for the year ended December 31, 2019 of the Company fully complies with the requirements of section 13(a) or 

section 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 and information contained in the Form 20-F fairly presents, in all material respects, the financial 
condition and results of operations of the Company. 

Dated: April 8, 2020 

/s/ Jose Montero
Jose Montero
Chief Financial Officer

(Section 906 CFO Certification)