FAP Lieutenant Jaime Andres de Montreuil Morales Airport

Overview

Aeropuerto CORPAC Chimbote (IATA: CHM, ICAO: SPEO) is a small domestic airport serving the city of Chimbote, the capital of the Santa Province in the Ancash Region of Peru. It is operated by CORPAC, the state-run corporation that manages many of Peru’s smaller airports. The airport primarily handles regional flights, connecting Chimbote with Lima and other coastal destinations. It is used by passengers travelling for business, visiting family, or exploring the nearby archaeological sites and beaches. Due to its modest size, the airport experiences limited traffic, with peak hours typically around 11 a.m. and 2 p.m., corresponding to scheduled flights.

Location & Access

Chimbote Airport is located approximately 15 kilometres (9 miles) south of the city centre, near the Pan-American Highway (Carretera Panamericana). The airport sits on a flat coastal plain close to the Pacific Ocean. Getting to and from the airport is straightforward: taxis and mototaxis are the primary modes of transportation. A taxi ride to the city centre takes about 20–30 minutes, depending on traffic. There is no direct public bus service to the airport, but colectivos (shared vans) pass along the nearby highway. Travellers can also arrange private transfers through their hotels or travel agencies. The airport’s location makes it a convenient gateway for visitors heading to Chimbote itself, as well as to neighbouring towns such as Nuevo Chimbote and the fishing port of Coishco.

Facilities

Aeropuerto CORPAC Chimbote is a basic facility without the amenities of larger international airports. The passenger terminal is small and functional. There are no confirmed restaurants, cafes, or duty-free shops on site. Passengers are advised to bring their own snacks and water, as options are limited or nonexistent. The airport does have a waiting area with seating, and basic restroom facilities are available. There is no ATM inside the terminal, so it is wise to withdraw cash before arriving. WiFi is not reliably available. Parking is free and located directly in front of the terminal. The airport is not wheelchair accessible in a formal sense, but staff may assist if notified in advance.

About the Region

Chimbote is a major fishing port on Peru’s north-central coast, known for its fishmeal industry and busy harbour. The city is the largest in the Ancash Region and serves as a commercial hub for the surrounding agricultural and mining areas. Beyond its industrial side, Chimbote offers a long, sandy beach (Playa de Chimbote) and a lively malecón (boardwalk). The region is rich in archaeological sites, most notably the ancient Moche and Chimú ruins. The nearby Huaca San Pedro and Huaca de la Luna are accessible for day trips. Further inland, the Cordillera Negra mountains provide opportunities for hiking and exploring traditional Andean villages. Travellers often use Chimbote as a base for visiting the Huascarán National Park in the Cordillera Blanca, though the drive to the park takes several hours. The climate is arid and temperate, with very little rainfall year-round, making it a reliable destination for outdoor activities.

Practical Information

Hours of Operation: The airport is not open all days; it operates only on days with scheduled flights. These are typically Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays, but schedules can change. Arrivals and departures are concentrated around peak hours at 11 a.m. and 2 p.m. It is essential to confirm flight times with your airline before travelling.

Contact: There is no publicly listed phone number or official website for the airport. For inquiries, passengers should contact their airline or CORPAC’s central office in Lima.

Services: No banking, currency exchange, or food concessions are available. A small kiosk may operate occasionally, but do not rely on it.

Transport: Taxis and mototaxis wait outside the terminal during flight times. Rates should be negotiated before departure; a typical fare to the city centre is around 15–20 Peruvian soles (2024 estimate).

Tips: Arrive at least 60 minutes before domestic flights, as check-in and security can be slow. Carry printed tickets if possible, as digital systems may be inconsistent. Bring cash for any unexpected expenses.

Aeropuerto CORPAC Chimbote is a no-frills airport that serves its purpose efficiently for those travelling to this part of Peru. With a little advance planning, passengers can navigate it without hassle.