COPA AIRLINES: NEW AIRCRAFT, NEW IMAGE.

Copa Airlines has unveiled its new company image as displayed on the first of 12 new Boeing 737-700 aircraft -- the result of an alliance with Continental Airlines. The arrangement creates one of the most important strategic alliances in Latin American aviation.

Eleven more aircraft will be delivered over the next several years to replace Copa's existing aircraft and create one of the youngest fleets in Latin America. The new planes will allow Copa Airlines to operate more non-stop routes out of Panama City, including new destinations in South America. Equipped with high-capacity overhead storage bins, new interiors, in-flight audio and video entertainment, the new aircraft will provide customers with the latest in technology and comfort.

The airline also has added new features that complement the award-winning service of Continental Airlines, including its Clase Ejecutiva business class cabin, featuring international cuisine and service, and full participation in Continental's OnePass frequent flyer program.

"The new aircraft will allow Copa to build on an already strong product, including an on-time performance of over 85% and world-class operational and service standards," said Pedro Heilbron, executive president of Copa Airlines. "We have designed our new image to build recognition of our brand among our customers everywhere in the Americas we fly. The new image truly captures who Copa Airlines is today and expresses the company's attitude and its commitment to its customers."

Copa and Continental have begun a code share arrangement to improve worldwide flight connections and enhance schedule options; one-stop ticketing, seat selection and baggage check; a shared frequent flyer program (OnePass) with mileage earnings and rewards on either airline along and common Elite benefits; and use of Continental's Presidents Club aiport lounges throughout the world, offering a seamless traveling experience.

Copa's participation in Continental's award-winning OnePass frequent flyer program gives customers the best frequent flyer program in Latin America and worldwide. Copa customers enrolled in OnePass will be able to earn and redeem miles on Copa, Continental Airlines and other OnePass airline partners, whose combined service offers more than 500 destinations worldwide. They also can earn miles using participating OnePass hotels, car rentals, credit cards and telecommunications partners. A hallmark of the OnePass program is that mileage credits do not expire.

Later this year, Cope and Continental will open a new Presidents Club at Tocumen International Airport. The new 6,400-squarefoot facility, located on the mezzanine level above the Copa and Continental departure gates, will feature comfortable seating for 96 people, a conference room, work stations and business center.

Cope Airlines (http://www.copaair.com) serves 24 destinations in 18 countries in North, Central and South America and the Caribbean. From its base in Panama City, Copa Airlines operates one of the most efficient and succesful hubs in Latin America. In 1999, the airline plans to transport more than 900,000 passengers and start operations to Buenos Aires and Sao Paulo.