A state-of-the-art new international airport has officially opened in Lima, Peru, solidifying its status as a major aviation hub in South America. Peruvian President Dina Boluarte declared the grand opening of this massive project on Friday, May 30 (local time). With a colossal investment exceeding $2 billion (approximately 2.7 trillion Korean Won), the airport is expected to accommodate 30 million passengers annually.
'Airport City' Concept and Advanced Technology Integration
Named 'Jorge Chávez Airport City (Ciudad Aeropuerto Jorge Chávez),' the new airport is more than just an airport; it's a vast, integrated complex. According to Lima Airport Partners (LAP), the airport's operator, it utilizes cutting-edge technology to maximize passenger management efficiency. It also features two runways, a hotel, and approximately 100 commercial establishments, offering a wide range of amenities to passengers. Notably, the airport's design is inspired by the millennia-old Nazca culture, boasting a unique structure resembling a hummingbird, one of the ancient Nazca Lines. This is regarded as a symbolic design that incorporates Peru's rich cultural heritage into modern architecture.
Soaring to Become South America's Premier Hub Airport
During the opening ceremony, President Boluarte emphasized, "With the opening of this, the most modern airport in South America, our country is moving towards the future." The inauguration of this new airport is expected to position Peru as the region's top logistics hub. Juan José Salmón, General Manager of LAP, stated, "We are making Peru the best logistics hub in the region," and mentioned that Fraport AG of Germany is a key partner in the project.
The new airport was constructed on a vast site spanning 935 hectares (approximately 2.83 million pyeong) with construction commencing in late 2020. It features 46 boarding gates, facilitating large-scale passenger processing. With the opening of this new airport, the annual passenger handling capacity will double from 15 million to 30 million. This is expected to strengthen Lima's role as an international transit hub and significantly contribute to Peru's tourism and economic revitalization.
Existing Airport's Transition and Future Utilization Plans
The new Jorge Chávez International Airport was built near the Callao port, where the original Jorge Chávez Airport was located. After more than 60 years of service, the existing airport facilities ceased operations, and all operations and flights are scheduled to be fully transferred to the new airport by this Sunday (June 2). The decommissioned facilities are planned to be utilized for aircraft maintenance, logistics offices, commercial spaces, and medical centers. This strategy aims to efficiently repurpose existing infrastructure while promoting the expansion of airport-related industries.
The opening of Lima's new international airport is expected to be a significant turning point, elevating Peru's aviation infrastructure and strengthening its international connectivity.
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