Jorge Chávez International Airport
Serving as the primary gateway to Peru, Jorge Chávez International Airport (LIM/SPJC) is a vital hub for both domestic and international travel. Located in Callao and serving the Lima metropolitan area, this public airport is owned by Fraport and operated by Lima Airport Partners. Since its opening on October 29, 1960, it has evolved into one of South America's most critical aviation nodes.
The airport is named after the pioneering Peruvian aviator Jorge Chávez Dartnell, a tribute established in June 1965. Over the decades, the facility has undergone significant transformations to accommodate growing passenger volumes and modernize its infrastructure to meet global standards.
Key Facts
- Location: Callao, Peru (Elevation: 34 m / 112 ft AMSL).
- Ownership: Owned by Fraport and operated by Lima Airport Partners.
- 2025 Statistics: Handled 27,420,159 total passengers and 199,000 aircraft movements.
- Cargo Capacity: Processed 267,000 tonnes of freight in 2025.
- Runways: Two asphalt runways (16L/34R at 3,507m and 16R/34L at 3,480m).
- Major Hub For: LATAM Perú, JetSmart Perú, Sky Airline Peru, Star Perú, and Atsa Airlines.
Infrastructure and Evolution
Historical Development
The airport's early years were marked by steady growth. Following its renaming in 1965, the terminal building was officially opened by President Fernando Belaúnde in December 1965 after an 11-month reconstruction period.
The New Terminal Project
To address increasing demand, a massive expansion project was initiated. While the transition to a new terminal faced some postponements and criticism, the facility has moved toward a modernized operational model. The new terminal is designed to significantly increase capacity, with goals to allow the transit of 40 million passengers by 2030.
Passenger Facilities
The airport offers a comprehensive range of amenities to enhance the traveler experience. This includes a diverse Duty Free area, VIP lounges, and tourist information centers. For those requiring overnight stays or short rests, the Hotel Costa del Sol is located at the old terminal site.
Ground Logistics
The airport provides structured parking areas and various transport options, including licensed taxis, buses, and road access to the city of Lima.
Aviation Network and Connectivity
Jorge Chávez International Airport serves as a critical link between Peru and the rest of the world. It hosts a wide array of international carriers, including American Airlines, Air France, KLM, and Iberia, connecting Lima to major cities like Miami, Paris, Amsterdam, and Madrid.
Busiest International Routes
The airport's traffic is heavily concentrated on regional South American routes. Santiago, Chile, stands as the busiest destination, followed by major capitals such as Bogotá, Buenos Aires, and Miami.
| Rank | Destination | Passenger Volume | Primary Airlines |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Santiago, Chile | 1,654,378 | LATAM, JetSmart, Sky Airline |
| 2 | Bogotá, Colombia | 839,947 | Avianca, LATAM Perú |
| 3 | Buenos Aires-Ezeiza, Argentina | 883,845 | Aerolíneas Argentinas, LATAM |
| 4 | Miami, United States | 881,406 | American Airlines, LATAM Perú |
| 5 | Madrid, Spain | 663,714 | Iberia, Air Europa, LATAM Perú |
Frequently Asked Questions
Who operates the Jorge Chávez International Airport?
The airport is owned by Fraport and is operated by Lima Airport Partners.
How many passengers did the airport handle in 2025?
In 2025, the airport recorded a total of 27,420,159 passengers.
What are the primary runways available at LIM?
The airport has two asphalt runways: 16L/34R (3,507 meters) and 16R/34L (3,480 meters).
Which airlines use LIM as a hub?
The airport serves as a hub for LATAM Perú, JetSmart Perú, Sky Airline Peru, Star Perú, and Atsa Airlines.
What is the elevation of the airport?
The airport is situated at an elevation of 34 meters (112 feet) above mean sea level (AMSL).