01/05/2025
The New Jorge Chávez International Airport (Lima, Peru) The Modern Gateway to South America
Jorge Chávez International Airport, located in Callao, 11 kilometers from downtown Lima, Peru, is poised to consolidate its position as South America's main airport hub with the opening of its new terminal. This ambitious project, led by Lima Airport Partners (LAP), represents a $2.4 billion investment and promises to transform the travel experience, boost tourism, and strengthen the Peruvian economy. Below, we explore all the details of this monumental project, from its infrastructure to the challenges ahead for its opening.
A Project of Regional Magnitude
The new Jorge Chávez Airport is not just an expansion; it's the creation of South America's first Airport City. Covering 935 hectares—equivalent to the district of Miraflores—the project triples the size of the current terminal, increasing from 90,000 to 270,000 square meters. This infrastructure is designed to handle 30 million passengers annually upon opening, with projections of reaching 40 million by 2030, surpassing even Bogotá's El Dorado Airport in capacity.
Main Features of the Infrastructure
Single Passenger Terminal: The new terminal, with five levels of service, will integrate domestic and international flights under one roof. It will have 56 departure lounges, 46 boarding gates, and a baggage handling system capable of processing 1,200 checked bags and 300 carry-on bags per hour. This will optimize wait times and improve the traveler experience.
Two Runways: The second runway, inaugurated in April 2023, is 3,480 meters long and is ready to handle large aircraft such as the Airbus A380 and the Boeing 747-8. The first runway is being renovated to achieve category 4F and will feature a CAT III B instrumental landing system, allowing operations in low-visibility conditions.
Cutting-edge technology: The airport incorporates innovations such as security CT scanners that eliminate the need to remove electronic devices or liquids from luggage, a centralized control and monitoring system, and seismic isolators to ensure operations during major earthquakes.
Commercial and Gastronomic Zones: The terminal will highlight Peruvian culture with a wide range of cuisines led by renowned chefs and commercial areas promoting local products. These areas aim to position the airport as a showcase for the Peru brand.
Airport City: Beyond the terminal, the project includes a Callao Logistics Park (operational from 2024), a three- and five-star hotel complex, a new cargo area, and an expanded parking lot. These initiatives will promote economic development and connectivity with the Port of Callao and the Chancay megaport.
Advances and Challenges in Construction
As of April 2025, construction of the new terminal is 99.9% complete, according to LAP, with most systems installed and tested. However, the opening, initially scheduled for December 2024, has been postponed several times (January 29 and March 30, 2025) due to pending technical tests and key permits.
Pending Tests
Fire Detection and Alarm System (DACI): Requires final evaluations by zone.
Fuel Plant: Fire response simulations in conjunction with OSINERGMIN.
LAN Network and FIDS (Flight Information System): Performance checks.
Air Conditioning: Centralized control verification.
Permits: Permits for drinking water, power generation, and airport operation certification are still pending.
The Supervisory Agency for Investment in Public Transportation Infrastructure (Ositrán) and the Ministry of Transportation and Communications (MTC) have emphasized that safety is a priority, and the terminal will not open until all standards are met. The final opening date is expected to be announced in May 2025, following the completion of the test flights that began on April 1.
Criticisms and Controversies
The lack of predictability in airport schedules has drawn criticism from airlines and passengers, who need to schedule operations months in advance. Furthermore, bureaucratic delays and problems with airport access have been reported. For example, the current access via Morales Duárez Avenue, with two temporary bridges, has been criticized for its limited capacity, and the Santa Rosa Bridge, the definitive route, will not be ready until 2027.
Economic and Strategic Impact
The new Jorge Chávez Airport will consolidate Lima as a strategic hub for trade, tourism, and logistics in South America. According to a study by Apoyo, it will generate a contribution of $1.562 billion to Peruvian GDP in its first year, equivalent to 0.6% of the national GDP. Furthermore, it will increase air cargo volume by 1.7 times, benefiting sectors such as agribusiness, fishing, and mining.
Its location, a few kilometers from the port of Callao and 70 km from the Chancay megaport, reinforces its potential as a logistics hub. Free trade agreements with Asian countries will also open new air routes to Asia and Oceania, increasing global connectivity.
Access and Connectivity
Starting December 2024, access to the airport will be via Morales Duárez Avenue, replacing the old entrance on Faucett Avenue. LAP and the Urban Transport Authority for Lima and Callao (ATU) are designing five to six new public transport routes, connecting the airport with the Metropolitano, the corridors, and Lines 1 and 2 of the Lima Metro. App-based taxis will also be allowed to enter, improving options for passengers.
However, posts on X have pointed out concerns about the lack of a metro station or pedestrian access, and restrictions for services like Uber or InDrive, which could limit the traveler experience.
A Promising Future
Despite delays, the new Jorge Chávez Airport is poised to become a benchmark for modernity and efficiency in South America. Compared to airports like Charles de Gaulle (Paris) or Schiphol (Amsterdam), its hummingbird-shaped design, advanced technology, and focus on Peruvian culture position it as a symbol of progress.
With more than 150 companies involved and a commitment to safety and sustainability, this project will not only transform Peru's aviation infrastructure but also open up new opportunities for trade, tourism, and economic development. Once the final hurdles are cleared, the airport is expected to begin operations in May 2025, marking the beginning of a new era for regional connectivity.
For more information, visit www.lima-airport.com or nuevojorgechavez.com.
