Located in Callao, the integrated port city of Lima, Jorge Chavez International Airport is the main airport of Peru, offering both international and domestic flights to and from the capital of the country. The airport serves more than 18 million passengers per year and is the base for many important airlines, acting as a major South American transport hub. Situated less than 20 kilometres from the historic centre of the city, it is frequently praised as being one of the best airports in the world by receiving such awards as “Best Airport in South America 2010” and “Lounge of the Year 2010”.
Jorge Chavez International Airport offers high-class services to its visitors, containing its own hotel equipped with a pool, salon, gym and restaurant, as well as the Peru Plaza Shopping Centre and terminal building food court. Visitors can buy typical Peruvian souvenirs from the many airport shops or relax while waiting for a flight at the restaurants, bars, cafes and fast food stalls, all of which are always open. There are also express spas and beauty counters offering massage therapy to relieve stress and even skin treatments and manicures for visitors to enjoy. Business travellers and exclusive visitors can gain access to corporate offices and VIP lounges, which provide luxurious waiting facilities and comfortable spaces with bars and entertainment services.
There are various transport links between the centre of Lima and Jorge Chavez International Airport, including private services like taxis, minivans and tour buses. Visitors can drive to the terminal and park or rent a car from the airport. Public transport is limited, although shuttle services are available into downtown Lima.
Jorge Chavez International Airport began operations in 1960 to replace the old airport of Lima and was named after the Peruvian, Jorge Chavez Dartnell, who was a famous aviator. The airport faces a large renovation project in 2005, which created the modern Peru Plaza Shopping Centre, Ramada Costa del Sol hotel and expanded the number of terminal gates. Consequently, tourism to Peru increased due to the increased facilities, better quality of services and impressive new infrastructure and architecture of the airport.