Concerns Grow Over Potential Delay in New Jorge Chávez International Airport Opening
/https://aviacionlinecdn.eleco.com.ar/media/2025/02/nuevo_aeropuerto_jorge_chavez_de_lima.jpg)
The Peruvian Consumers and Users Association (ASPEC) has expressed concerns about the possibility of another delay in the opening of the new Jorge Chávez International Airport, scheduled for March 30. According to the organization, several critical issues must be addressed to ensure a safe and efficient start to operations.
Statements from Prime Minister Gustavo Adrianzén have added to the uncertainty. He warned that the inauguration could be postponed again if safety conditions are not met 100%.
Key Issues Raised by ASPEC
ASPEC has highlighted several concerns, including:
- Unclear access routes: Vehicles traveling south to north may need to make a U-turn, potentially causing congestion despite planned traffic light synchronization measures by the Ministry of Transport and Communications (MTC).
- Ride-hailing services: ASPEC called for clear regulations from the Urban Transport Authority (ATU) to define which transport services will have unrestricted airport access.
- Public transport limitations: The Aero Directo bus service will operate with only 26 units, which ASPEC considers insufficient. The organization also requested information on possible shuttle bus services connecting the airport with different parts of the city, as seen in other countries.
- Accessibility concerns: The 270-meter distance between the drop-off point and the terminal entrance is deemed inadequate for passengers with reduced mobility.
- Infrastructure safety: ASPEC stressed the importance of demonstrating the structural integrity of key access bridges.
- Surrounding roadworks: The group emphasized that all expansion projects around the airport should be completed and tested before the inauguration.
Safety and Operational Testing
Despite ASPEC’s concerns, Peruvian authorities maintain that safety remains the top priority for the airport’s opening. Prime Minister Adrianzén stated that while construction is 99.9% complete, final safety tests are still pending.
"Until all safety systems, including fire protection, are fully certified and there is absolutely no risk, we will not inaugurate the airport," he affirmed.
One major issue is the underground fuel station, which still requires additional validation. Initial tests have revealed observations that must be addressed before operations begin.
Airlines and Industry Perspectives
Carlos Gutiérrez, General Manager of the International Air Transport Companies Association (AETAI), confirmed that a delay is "completely possible" if pending safety issues are not resolved by March 30.
"We will not operate if there are unresolved safety concerns," he stated in a report published by Infobae.
Another issue under scrutiny is the reduction of space for key airport services, including:
- Migration control: The departure area will be 40% smaller, and the arrival area will shrink by 20%.
- Boarding bridges and fuel pits: Industry leaders have flagged the need for further technical adjustments and certification before the terminal opens.
Calls for a Potential Postponement
Given these challenges, several industry groups, including the Peruvian Association of Travel and Tourism Agencies (Apavit), have called for a further delay if operational requirements are not fully met.
Apavit President Ricardo Acosta emphasized the importance of thorough testing:
"It’s better to conduct all necessary tests and ensure full confidence in the airport’s operations," he said.
Comprehensive operational trials began on February 27, and the final decision on the airport’s opening will depend on the results.
Para comentar, debés estar registradoPor favor, iniciá sesión