The head of Mincetur, Desilú León, considered the decision taken by the MTC in coordination with the concessionaire to be appropriate so that the new Airport City is in the required conditions.

Peru's Ministry of Foreign Trade and Tourism (Mincetur) said on Thursday that the recent announcement of the postponement of the opening of the new Jorge Chávez International Airport to March 30 will not affect the recovery process of the tourism sector.

"We consider the decision taken by the Ministry of Transport and Communications in coordination with the concessionaire to be opportune so that the new Airport City is in the conditions required, with all the tests [conducted] and with all the services available," said the head of the sector, Desilú León.

After participating in the business and state connection forum organized by the Brazil-Peru Chamber of Commerce (Cambraper), he stressed that this whole issue is previously coordinated with the operators, so the corresponding notes are issued, notifications are made in a timely manner and in the end the tourist service is not affected.

Sectoral expectations

The Minister of Foreign Trade and Tourism also expressed that there are high expectations for the upcoming inauguration of the airport infrastructure by March 30.

"We, like everyone else, are looking forward to the launch of the new Airport City with great anticipation. When it does happen, it will be in the best possible condition," he said.

The Minister reiterated the commitment of the tourism sector to collaborate in all necessary ways for the successful opening of the new airport, in order to guarantee the quality of service and the safety of passengers.

Changes

The Government, in coordination with Lima Airport Partners (LAP) and taking into account the needs of the aeronautical community (airlines, service operators, among others), decided to reschedule the start of operations of the new Jorge Chávez International Airport for March 30, 2025, in order to prioritize safety, regularity and operational efficiency, aligning with international civil aviation safety standards.

The decision was announced by the Minister of Transport and Communications, Raúl Pérez Reyes, after holding a coordination meeting with all representatives of the aeronautical community: LAP, the Association of International Air Transport Companies (AETAI), the International Air Transport Association (IATA), the Supervisory Body for Investment in Public Use Transport Infrastructure (Ositran) and the Urban Transport Authority (ATU), among other actors.

This additional period will allow for comprehensive operational testing, identifying areas for improvement, making the necessary corrections and ensuring that the operating staff of the concessionaire, airlines and specialized services (catering, transportation, security, among others) are fully trained and familiar with the new terminal flow.