Big day for modernisation of Peru’s gateway to the world

Fraport subsidiary, Lima Airport Partners (LAP) is celebrating the official opening of the new terminal at Lima’s Jorge Chávez International Airport (LIM) in the Peruvian capital.

Overnight from May 31 to June 1, airlines, government agencies, and partners will relocate from Lima’s old terminal to the new one, which is three times its size.

The opening was preceded by a two-week soft launch period involving four airlines to ensure an efficient start of operations and operational stability.

By the end of 2025, it will be expanded further to cover 270,000 square metres, providing enough capacity to receive up to 40 million passengers annually.

According to LAP, thanks to its modular design, the terminal’s capacity can be increased to accommodate future growth.

Fraport CEO Dr Stefan Schulte, says: “The opening of the terminal is a milestone – not just for Fraport, but also for Peru and South America.

“Our goal is to make Lima one of the continent’s most important hubs, providing a boost to tourism, air cargo traffic and connectivity for all Peruvians.

“The opening of this flagship project clearly symbolises our commitment to Peru. We’ve worked together with our Lima Airport subsidiary and our partners to build the new terminal and the first Airport City in South America, connecting air travel with cargo, logistics, retail, and hotels.”

The approximately $2 billion expansion programme that began in 2019 involved building both the terminal itself and related infrastructure.

Key elements of the project included a second runway, a new air traffic control tower, aircraft parking positions, energy supply facilities, transportation connections, and parking facilities for passengers and visitors.

The new terminal will feature future-proofed technologies, including highly efficient CT scanners for aviation security, while at the same time reflecting Peru’s history and culture.

Works created in partnership with local Peruvian artists are located throughout the terminal, representing the country’s three regions – the coast, the rainforest, and the mountains.

In addition, restaurants across more than 8,000 square metres of floorspace will inspire travellers to savour Peruvian cuisine.

Lima Airport Partners CEO José Salmon says: “The new terminal is the heartbeat of Peru. This airport will create approximately 120,000 jobs, benefiting our neighbouring communities.

“Furthermore, the airport will contribute to our country’s economic growth, creating jobs for future generations, boosting business, and promoting the recovery of tourism.”

LIM will also be the first airport in South America to use a digital apron management system. The system allows airport controllers to monitor and control taxiing traffic from the terminal with the aid of cameras.

The implementation of this technology, says LAP, represents a significant milestone in Lima Airport’s journey toward operational excellence.

Fraport AG has been operating LIM since 2001 and holds a controlling 80.01% stake in LAP.