New Lima Airport Set to Open Its Doors on January 29, 2025
On January 29th, 2024, Jorge Chávez International Airport, Peru's main air terminal, will witness a historic moment with the opening of its new passenger terminal. This milestone marks a significant advancement in the country's airport infrastructure, addressing the growing demand for both domestic and international flights. The new Jorge Chávez Airport is inspired by the iconic hummingbird from the Nazca Lines.
On this historic day, Lima’s airport will close the operations of the old terminal, currently in use, and transition to a single, large new terminal. Lima Airport Partners, the concessionaire, has been preparing for this with comprehensive operational and contingency plans to ensure a smooth transition.
Inspired by the Nazca Lines Hummingbird
Second Runway: More Operations and Fewer Delays
One of the major advancements is the inauguration of the second runway, which will significantly reduce delays and optimize operations. Previously, the airport operated with only one runway, which created limitations in managing air traffic, especially during peak hours. Now, with two runways, simultaneous landings and takeoffs will be possible, streamlining aircraft flow and reducing wait times.
Initial Challenges and Future Outlook
The new infrastructure is accompanied by several ongoing investments around the airport, such as elevated metropolitan roads connecting with expressways for faster access to Lima's southern tourist districts, like Miraflores and San Isidro, new access bridges to the terminal, and a new station for Line 2 of Lima's metro. These projects are still under construction, meaning that the start of operations at the new airport will require some adjustments in transportation to and from the terminal.
The current access road to the airport will be closed, and the new temporary access will be through bridges installed along Avenida Morales Duárez.
VIPAC’s operational teams will be closely monitoring any operational challenges that arise. As always, we will maintain close communication with our clients and travelers to ensure their journeys are as comfortable and safe as they have come to expect from us.
Enhancing Peru’s Gastronomy
The new gastronomic plaza at Jorge Chávez International Airport, Perusuyo, will be one of the main attractions of the renovated terminal, offering a culinary experience that highlights the diversity of Peru's renowned cuisine.
The space will feature two food plazas offering a variety of traditional and contemporary dishes, as well as an iconic bar inspired by Peru's ancestral goldsmithing, where typical drinks and cocktails will be served.
Among the featured chefs participating are Mitsuharu Tsumura, from the renowned Maido restaurant; Jaime Pesaque, chef of Mayta, listed among the 50 Best Restaurants; and José del Castillo, from Isolina. All of them are committed to bringing the best of Peruvian cuisine to travelers.
An Ambitious and Necessary Project
Located in Callao, Jorge Chávez Airport has experienced sustained growth in passenger numbers and air operations in recent years. The construction of the new terminal and second runway represents a multi-million dollar investment and years of planning and development. This project will not only enhance the passenger experience but also enable the airport to handle a higher volume of flights with greater efficiency and safety.
With the opening of the new terminal, the airport will expand its capacity to serve over **30 million passengers annually**, a significant increase from its current capacity. This new infrastructure is designed to meet international standards, offering larger, more modern, and sustainable spaces, including commercial, dining, and service areas that will greatly improve the overall experience for travelers.