I think it's a bit premature to say that COPA isn't hiring anymore expats.
Dead nuts on!
The hiring seems to have ceased due to some new restrictions due to the Gov't but that's about it.
Direct from the horse's mouth sort to say... A Copa TRE in our group, interviewing with a carrier overseas said they are awaiting delivery of a dozen NGs. To economize, no contracts will be issued to either nationals or expats until delivery dates, and routes are set up for each aircraft.
Very low pay and very poor benefits provided by Copa to new crewmembers.
I gave line training to former Copa crews going back 5 years ago. The Diaspora from Copa before then for the above reason.