Originally Posted by Warren B

Update on my CM409 Flight for Jan 11, 2024 from SFO->PTY

It is scheduled to fly out tonight on the 737max9.

I called COPA again today Jan 11 (23 minutes on hold) and got some conflicting information from my previous call. When inquiring about tonight’s max9, she said that it was a plug panel and had passed inspection. This was in conflict with the previous rep who reassured me it was not one of the 21 of 29 in their fleet that required inspection.

I then asked the rep to give me a refund of my non refundable fare given the inconsistent information and lack of transparency regarding the planes safety AND to honor the same offer that Alaska Air is offering their customers (full refund on non refundable flight). After multiple back and forths she wouldn’t budge saying that my fare didn’t qualify. She recommended I file a complaint on COPAs website.

I hung up and I stewed for a bit trying to scheme ways to get a refund or to proceed with legal actions, however I shortly realized that I could likely get a future flight credit if I cancelled.

So I called back again and after another 30 minutes on hold, the rep was happy to offer me an open ticket no questions asked. The open ticket must be used before 1 year from the date I booked the original fare. It can used through any origin or destination airport. There was a $75 rebooking fee per pax. My original fare was business promo ~3600 (SFO->PTY->LIM) in their lie flat dream suites.

As you recall, yesterday I had already booked a nonmax9 intinerary with United (SFO->HOU->LIM), anticipating I would fly COPA) so I will keep that.

I am a bit concerned by COPAs conflicting accounts and lack of transparency. Given this id rather not fly any max9s. As this is a developing situation, I didn’t want to go through the uncertainty again in 10 days when I return.

Overall, I would’ve preferred a refund, and perhaps I could get one if I spent more time dragging this out, however, at this time I need to move on with life and I am happy with my solution for the time being. I get the certainty and security of a nonmax9 itinerary and I won’t lose the money I originally spent on original the COPA flight. I had been planning a trip to Buenos Aires so I will book later in the year when all the max9 drama settles and we have more information.