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The New Lima Airport is home to the most modern terminal in South America

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August 11, 2025

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Located in the center-west of South America, the Peruvian capital serves as the region’s main air hub. However, Lima’s old airport, which opened in 1960 with the capacity to receive 12 million visitors per year, currently operates at double its capacity, accommodating 24 million visitors annually.

For this reason, building a new airport in Lima became a national priority, and now it has become a reality! The new terminal can handle 30 to 60 million travelers each year and offers visitors the chance to meet, relax, and enjoy exceptional services, hotels, and facilities. It is also known as the “Airport City” for good reason. Inaugurated on June 1, experts have already rated it as the most modern airport in South America. Learn more about this modern airport here.

Lima’s airport city is unique in South America

But what does “airport city” mean? It’s a new type of airport that includes everything: hotels, restaurants, shopping malls, police stations, post offices, and banks. In other words, the airport serves as the main attraction of this city. Lima, the capital of Peru, became the first city in South America to have one.

The new terminal measures three times the size of the previous one and can handle approximately 40 million passengers per year. The airport features biometric electronic gates and 3D scanners throughout its facilities. It retains the IATA code LIM and aims to compete with regional giants, such as São Paulo and Bogotá, by 2030.

Lima Airport Partners: German management in the new airport

Since its inauguration in 1960, the Corporación Peruana de Aeropuertos y Aviación Comercial (CORPAC) has operated and managed Lima Airport, as well as all other Peruvian airports. However, in 2000, the private company Lima Airport Partners (LAP) took over.

Owned 80% by Fraport AG, the owner of Frankfurt Airport and other international airports, and 20% by the International Finance Corporation, a member of the World Bank Group, LAP has transformed Jorge Chávez Airport into one of the best in South America. LAP has invested more than $2 billion in the new airport in Lima.

The history of Jorge Chávez

Jorge Antonio Chávez Dartnell was born on June 13, 1887, in Paris, France, to Peruvian parents. Although he grew up in Europe, he always took pride in his Peruvian ancestry. From an early age, he displayed a passion for science and technology, which led him to study engineering at the prestigious Ecole des Arts et Métiers in France.

At the beginning of the 20th century, aviation emerged as a new, dangerous, and exciting activity. Airplanes could only fly for a few minutes, and any long flight represented an achievement. Chávez felt drawn to this challenge and decided to pursue a career as an aviator.

In 1910, he obtained his pilot’s license and quickly gained fame for his bravery and skill. That same year, the Aeroclub of Italy organized an international competition with an unprecedented goal: to cross the Alps in an airplane. The flight posed extreme risks due to the strong winds and high altitude.

Determined to leave his mark in the history of aviation, Jorge Chavez entered the competition. On September 23, 1910, he took off from Briga, Switzerland, in a fragile Blériot XI monoplane, made mainly of wood and fabric. After a difficult and dangerous flight, he successfully crossed the Alps and reached Domodossola, Italy, becoming the first person to do so.

However, as he was about to land, the plane destabilized and caused him to fall several meters. Chavez survived the impact but suffered serious injuries. Medical personnel took him to the hospital, where he fought for his life for four days. On September 27, 1910, at the age of 23, he succumbed to his injuries. Before he died, he reportedly uttered a phrase that has gone down in history: “Up, always up!”.

Lima airport architecture and services

Located in the Callao district of Lima, Jorge Chávez International Airport is Peru’s main airport and one of the most important in South America. Since its inauguration in 1960, the airport has undergone several modernizations, and it is currently expanding with the construction of a new terminal. This expansion will be an important milestone in the country’s airport infrastructure.

The current terminal design prioritizes operational efficiency over aesthetics. It is a single building divided into two main levels: one for arrivals and one for departures. Although the terminal’s design is not particularly modern, upgrades have been made over time to improve the passenger experience. The airport is also directly connected to a hotel and parking lots via pedestrian access.

Since 2018, an ambitious expansion project has been underway, including the construction of a new passenger terminal, a second runway, a new control tower, and new access roads. Scheduled to open in 2025, the new terminal will feature contemporary architecture, larger spaces, state-of-the-art technological systems, and a focus on environmental sustainability. The expansion is expected to accommodate more than 30 million passengers per year.

The airport offers travelers a wide range of services and facilities. These include manual and automatic check-in counters, modern security and immigration control systems, VIP lounges, and comfortable waiting areas. There are also a variety of shopping options available. Duty-free stores, boutiques, souvenir shops, and shops selling Peruvian products are also available. There are also restaurants offering international and Peruvian cuisine.

The airport offers free Wi-Fi, assistance for passengers with reduced mobility, car rentals, official cabs, and access to transportation platforms such as Uber. The Costa del Sol Wyndham Hotel is located directly opposite the terminal and is ideal for passengers with early morning or transit flights.

How do you get to the new airport in Lima?

Aerodirecto: Safe transportation to Jorge Chávez Airport

AeroDirecto is an official transportation service that connects various locations in metropolitan Lima with Jorge Chávez International Airport in El Callao. Designed for passengers seeking a safe, comfortable, and punctual airport experience, AeroDirecto provides an alternative to informal taxis and traditional public transportation.

One of AeroDirecto’s main advantages is its established routes from popular districts such as San Borja, Surco, San Miguel, and Miraflores. Each route has fixed, signposted stops in the city and at the airport, enabling passengers to plan their trips ahead of time.

AeroDirecto buses are modern and feature several onboard amenities, including air conditioning, free Wi-Fi, comfortable seats, and plenty of luggage space. Additionally, each bus is equipped with a GPS system, and drivers are fully trained to ensure a safe and reliable trip.

The service operates seven days a week with a frequency of between 60 and 90 minutes, depending on the route and schedule. The ticket price is USD 1.50, and buses operate from 5:30 a.m. to 10:00 p.m. This service is aimed at Peruvian and international travelers, although it is open to anyone.

The Airport Express Lima is the official transportation service between downtown Lima and the Jorge Chávez International Airport

Airport Express Lima is a private transportation service that connects Jorge Chávez International Airport with major hotels and tourist areas in Lima, especially the districts of Miraflores and San Isidro. Designed as a comfortable, safe, and direct alternative, the service allows Peruvian and international travelers to avoid chaotic traffic and informal transportation when arriving in or departing from Lima.

One of the main advantages of the service is its exclusivity for airport passengers. Its modern buses are equipped with all the necessary amenities to ensure a relaxing ride. All buses have free Wi-Fi, USB ports for charging devices, air conditioning, and ample luggage space. The buses also have a GPS tracking system, and the drivers are trained in customer service and safety.

The service makes fixed stops at strategic locations in Miraflores and San Isidro, including hotels and major avenues. This allows passengers to be picked up or dropped off near their accommodations. Buses depart every 30 to 60 minutes, depending on air traffic, and are available throughout the day.

The service has a fixed fare, which may vary slightly depending on the destination, but typically costs between $8 and $10 one way. Round-trip discounts are available, and tickets can be purchased online, at the airport, or directly from the driver.

The Airport Express Lima service is available seven days a week for all passengers arriving at the airport, regardless of their airline or country of origin. Although advance reservations are not required, they are recommended during peak season.

The bus stop is located inside the international arrivals terminal and is clearly marked. Staff who speak English and Spanish are available to assist passengers.

This service is ideal for:

This is ideal for tourists traveling with luggage who want to avoid unsafe taxis.

This service is ideal for first-time visitors to Lima who prefer a direct, hassle-free option.

Travelers looking for safe, professional transportation to tourist areas.

Private transportation services and authorized taxis are available at Jorge Chávez Airport.

Jorge Chávez International Airport, located in Callao, is the country’s main entry and exit point. Due to its high volume of domestic and international passengers, the airport offers several ground transportation options, including authorized taxis and private services. These alternatives aim to ensure the safety, comfort, and ease of travel for passengers.

Authorized taxis are one of the most recommended options for leaving the airport. These vehicles operate within the airport and are regulated by companies that comply with safety standards, established rates, and quality control. The main companies are Taxi 365, Taxi Directo, and, occasionally, Taxi Green. They all have official stops in the arrivals area where passengers can request a taxi and pay directly, either in cash or by card.

These taxis have fixed fares based on destination, so passengers know the cost of their trip before it begins and can avoid potential overcharges. Furthermore, drivers are registered, vehicles are well-maintained, and a driver identification system provides greater security for passengers. Licensed taxis operate 24 hours a day, 365 days a year.

Another popular option is to use mobile apps to book private transportation services, such as Uber, Beat, Cabify, or InDrive. These services offer flexible pricing and allow you to schedule trips to and from the airport. However, due to airport regulations, drivers cannot pick up passengers directly at the arrivals gate. Passengers must walk to a nearby pickup area, such as a parking lot or outdoor walkway.

Free services for passengers

Connectivity and Communication:

The airport offers free, unlimited Wi-Fi throughout its facilities via the FreeWifiJorgeChavez network. There are also charging stations for electronic devices in common and waiting areas. A digital chatbot has been implemented to facilitate traveler navigation. It is accessible via a QR code and offers real-time information on flights, gates, and available services.

Information and assistance.

Passenger service desks are located throughout the airport. Trained staff, including English and sign language speakers, are available to assist travelers. There is also a toll-free calling system that allows for national or international calls of up to five minutes from designated locations.

Accessibility:

The airport has infrastructure that is inclusive for passengers with disabilities or special needs. This includes ramps, elevators, accessible restrooms, tactile signage, and complimentary wheelchairs and strollers. Additionally, there is a sunflower-shaped pendant program for people with hidden conditions, such as autism or dementia. This program allows these individuals to receive preferential and respectful care.

Other free services:

The airport offers the following free services:

Drinking water dispensers in key areas.

Lactation rooms equipped with furniture and a refrigerator for nursing mothers.

A lost and found office with in-person and online assistance.

Medical and first aid services operating 24 hours a day.

Play areas for children within the airport.

Commercial and payment services

There are plenty of shopping and dining options at Jorge Chávez International Airport

The airport offers a wide variety of shopping and dining options before and after security.

Shopping:

Before going through security, you’ll find the shopping area known as Plaza Perú in the public area. There, you’ll find shops selling Peruvian handicrafts, alpaca textiles, leather goods, coffee, chocolates, liquors, and souvenirs.

After passing through immigration in the international area, you’ll find a duty-free shop. There, you can purchase products from international brands, such as Lacoste, Tommy Hilfiger, and Timberland, as well as perfumes, cosmetics, watches, clothing, chocolates, and alcoholic beverages, including pisco and whiskey.

There are also local shops selling snacks, magazines, books, travel accessories, and gifts.

Gastronomy:

The new airport terminal dedicates more than 8,000 square meters to gastronomy. It features a wide variety of restaurants, food courts, cafés, and bars with renowned Peruvian chefs and modern concepts.

After passing through security, the following restaurants stand out:

Sakai: Nikkei cuisine by Chef Mitsuharu Tsumura.

Callao: ceviche and seafood dishes by Chef Jaime Pesaque.

Los Reyes: Creole cuisine by Chef José del Castillo.

La Lucha offers traditional Peruvian sandwiches.

Burger Boy was recognized as having the best burger in Peru in 2023.

KO offers Asian fusion cuisine.

Pan Sal Aire is an artisan bakery and pizzeria.

Puku Puku offers organic and sustainable Peruvian coffee.

The “Lima Mundial” food hall, developed by Gastón Acurio’s group, is also located inside the airport and includes:

Papacho’s: gourmet burgers.

El Bodegón: classic Lima cuisine.

Sakamoto: Sushi and Nikkei cuisine.

Curatodo: Peruvian street food.

Habla Broster: crispy chicken with Creole sauces.

Tanta Café is an espresso version of the Tanta restaurant.

Papita Deli: Peruvian snacks, such as tamales, causes, and salads.

As for bars:

Copper stands out. It is a modern bar overlooking the runway that offers Peruvian and international cocktails and snacks.

There are also dining options before security, in the public area.

Pikeos offers simple dishes, drinks, good Wi-Fi, and power outlets.

La Lucha: It’s also available outside the secure area and is ideal for those who haven’t checked in yet.

Overall, the airport offers a modern experience with food options for all tastes, quality shopping, and comfortable spaces to wait for your flight.

VIP Lounges

Sumaq VIP Lounge
Location: International Departures Area.
Access: With an airline invitation or by paying at the door.
Services: Buffet, showers, and rest and work areas.
Hours: Open 24 hours.
Capacity: 278 people.

Hanaq VIP Lounge
Location: International departures area, near Gate 17.
Access: Accessible with a Priority Pass, Visa Signature/Infinite card, or by paying at the door.
Services: Buffet, children’s area, showers, business area, Wi-Fi, and television.
Hours: 24 hours.
One free alcoholic beverage is included per adult.
Children under two years old enter for free.
Capacity: 367 people.

The Lounge by Newrest
Location: Domestic departures area, near Gate 13.
Access: Access with a Priority Pass or by paying at the door.
Services: Work area, showers, children’s area, and luggage storage.
Hours: Daily.

Other options:

Caral VIP Lounge: An affordable option for domestic flights. Pay at the gate. Open 24 hours.

VIP Club Lounge: Located near Gate 17 in the international area. Pay at the gate for basic services.

Coming soon:

LATAM VIP Lounge: Exclusively for LATAM customers. Located in the new terminal on level 4. Estimated opening: mid-2025.

New Airport Dimensions VIP Lounges: Four lounges in the new terminal with show cooking, showers, family areas, and work areas. Opening in 2025.

Enjoy wellness and relaxation at Jorge Chávez Airport

Spa Express — Costa del Sol Wyndham Lima Airport
The spa is located within the hotel, which is directly connected to the airport terminal. It offers wellness services, including relaxing massages, a sauna, a Jacuzzi, and an indoor pool. The spa is primarily available to hotel guests and, in some cases, to passengers in transit. The spa is open 24 hours a day.

Wyndham Costa del Sol Lima Airport
The hotel is connected to the airport terminal by a walkway. It features the Oceanica Spa, which offers therapeutic massages, a sauna, a Turkish bath, and a Jacuzzi. The hotel also has an indoor pool and a 24-hour gym. These services are available to guests.

There is a spa within the airport
On Level 2 of the international departures area, there is a spa that offers express massages, facials, and body treatments. It caters to passengers in transit and is usually open during peak flight times.

Luggage Services:

We offer luggage packing with plastic protection, storage for your belongings for hours or days, and luggage carts located in convenient spots. We also offer luggage transportation within the airport.

Left Luggage Storage:
Located on the ground floor of the International Arrivals area. It is open 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.
The approximate cost is 6.50 soles per hour or 39 soles per day.

Lockers:
They are also located in the international arrivals area. They are available around the clock.
They cost 12 soles per hour or 56 soles per day and have approximate dimensions of 45 x 60 x 75 cm.

There is a new safekeeping service on Level 1 of the new terminal

An additional service is available next to the international arrivals area on level one. It is open 24 hours a day and accepts credit cards.
Prices depend on the size of your baggage.

Small baggage: 8 soles per hour or 48 soles per day.

Large baggage: 16 soles per hour or 96 soles per day.

Lockers cost 20 soles per hour or 100 soles per day.

Large or special items, such as bicycles or surfboards, cost 20 soles per hour or 100 soles per day.

Wrapping and protection services:

Safe Bag is located in the check-in area, next to Gates 6 and 8. The company offers plastic film wrapping, baggage tracking, compensation coverage, and the sale of security accessories. These services are available 24 hours a day.
There are also wrapping stations in front of the check-in counters, which cost approximately 35 soles per bag.

Lost and Found Office:

It is located in the International Zone. Open daily from 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m.

Technology and Communication:

Infrastructure:

A new terminal three times larger than the previous one opened in 2025.

It has a projected capacity of 40 million passengers per year.

The terminal is part of the “Airport City” project, which includes a hotel, a shopping center, and improved roads.

Technology and security:

3D CT scanners are used for advanced baggage screening.

They have a Category III ILS system, which allows for landings in low visibility conditions.

It also has digital ground traffic management (apron) with cameras and remote monitoring, a first in South America.

Immigration and access:

Digital pre-check-in with a QR code reduces immigration control time.

Electronic gates and biometrics also speed up access.

Digital services for passengers

A helpful chatbot is accessible via QR code and offers real-time information about flights and services.

This inclusive service includes accessibility systems for individuals with reduced mobility and hidden disabilities.

Regional importance

It is the most important airport in Peru and a major hub in South America.

LATAM Peru, SKY Airlines Peru, and JetSMART Peru all call it home.

Direct connections are available to destinations in the Americas and Europe, with more international destinations coming soon.

Additional Services

Airport Hotel:

The Costa del Sol Wyndham Lima Airport is the main hotel at Jorge Chávez Airport. It is located directly across from the terminal. With direct access from the airport, it is the most convenient option for passengers with late-night or early-morning flights, or those in transit. The hotel has 192 soundproofed rooms, as well as a restaurant, bar, spa, pool, gym, and meeting rooms.

The four-star Holiday Inn Lima Airport is located just 350 meters from Jorge Chávez International Airport in Callao. Its main advantages are its proximity to the airport and its free 24-hour shuttle bus service, which transports guests every 30 minutes.

The hotel has 179 soundproof rooms spread over eight floors. They are designed to ensure a peaceful night’s sleep, even when you’re close to the runway. The hotel offers connecting rooms, daily housekeeping, and room service.

Notable amenities include:

A buffet breakfast available from 4:00 a.m., ideal for early travelers.

A heated indoor pool and jacuzzi.

A free gym with basic equipment.

A 24-hour business center and meeting rooms.

Free guest parking.

The hotel has its own restaurant, Estación Callao, which serves an all-day buffet, as well as a 24-hour lobby bar, San Lorenzo.

This pet-friendly hotel welcomes pets up to 40 lbs for an additional fee per night. The hotel is also accessible for guests with reduced mobility and offers accessible rooms and amenities.

Tourist Information:

The airport has Iperú counters, which are the official tourist information service of the Peruvian government. These counters are located in the domestic and international arrivals and departures areas. Travelers can obtain free information on Peru’s main destinations, guidance on procedures, and support in the event of complaints regarding tourist services there.

Security procedures

Jorge Chávez International Airport in Lima, Peru, has modern security systems and strict procedures to ensure passenger protection and efficient flights. Carry-on and checked baggage are screened using 3D computed tomography technology, which enables the detection of objects without requiring passengers to remove liquids or electronic devices.

Immigration control has been modernized with electronic gates and digital pre-registration systems to expedite travelers’ passage.

Over 120 police officers patrol the access roads to the airport 24 hours a day. In case of an emergency, the new terminal has two fully equipped rescue stations, and security drills have resumed.

However, the anti-drug unit (Dirandro) faces serious structural problems at the new airport, including temporary facilities, a lack of cells and showers, and a location far from key areas. These issues compromise Dirandro’s effectiveness. Nevertheless, Dirandro continues to operate and has the support of the GETAA Special Group. LAP claims that the design was agreed upon and that corrections are in progress, though many have yet to be implemented.

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