Cornel Ruiz Airport

The international airport, officially named after the Peruvian national hero Capitán FAP José Abelardo Quiñones Gonzáles, serves as the main air gateway to the Lambayeque region. In travel guides and booking systems, this aviation hub also frequently appears under the alternative name Cornel Ruiz. Located literally within the city limits, it offers travellers a unique opportunity to begin exploring the archaeological wonders of northern Peru, such as the Royal Tombs of Sipán, just minutes after landing.

Features and Passenger Amenities

A key advantage of the airport is its exceptional proximity to urban infrastructure: a trip to the central square of Chiclayo takes no more than 10 minutes by taxi. Although small, the terminal has undergone a series of modernisations under the management of the operator Aeropuertos del Perú (AdP), ensuring more comfortable conditions for the growing flow of tourists.

Inside the building, passengers will find everything necessary for a short wait. In the departure area, the Caral VIP Lounge operates—a cosy business lounge where you can relax in a quiet atmosphere, use the Wi-Fi, and have a snack before your flight. The airport handles both domestic flights from Lima and international routes (for example, connections via Panama), linking northern Peru with the rest of the world.

For your convenience, we have compiled the main contact information for Cornel Ruiz Airport (CIX):

• Official Website: You can find the current schedule and news on the official page of the operator Aeropuertos del Perú (AdP). Direct link to the Chiclayo airport page: www.adp.com.pe.
• Information Desk Phone: For general enquiries, you can contact the AdP central office at: +51 (1) 710 9000. For questions regarding specific flights, it is recommended to call your airline directly.
• Airport Address: Av. Bolognesi 965, Chiclayo 14008, Peru.
• Email: For written enquiries regarding general matters, you can use the AdP customer support email: atencionalcliente@adp.com.pe.
• Social Media: The airport is managed by Aeropuertos del Perú (AdP). The latest updates and news can be tracked on their official social media pages (e.g., Facebook).
• Lost Luggage Information: It is important to remember that for all issues related to lost, delayed, or damaged luggage, you must contact your airline's representative directly at the airport.
• Passenger Support Contacts: For support on general issues not related to luggage or flight details, you may use the phone number and email address listed above.

Getting to the airport in the city of Chiclayo, one of the key transport hubs in northern Peru, is effortless due to its close proximity to the city centre. The journey usually takes just 5-15 minutes depending on traffic conditions and the chosen mode of transport. You have several convenient options to reach the terminal.

Taxi and Transfer — the most popular and convenient method for tourists. You can use official taxi services, order a car via mobile apps (such as Uber or Cabify, if available in the region), or hail a car on the street. For a short trip from the city centre, the cost will be approximately 10-20 Peruvian Soles (PEN). A characteristic feature of the city is the mototaxi — three-wheeled motorcycles; a ride on these will cost even less, but this option is suitable only for travellers with light luggage. Always agree on the price with the driver in advance if the vehicle is not equipped with a meter.

Public Transport represents the most budget-friendly option. In Chiclayo, these are mainly shared taxis known as "combis" or "colectivos". They run throughout the city, and some routes pass near the airport. The fare is symbolic — just 1-2 Soles. However, this method may be uncomfortable if you have a lot of luggage, and the routes might seem confusing for first-time visitors.

Car Rental and Parking — an excellent choice for those planning to explore the surroundings of Chiclayo independently, including the famous archaeological complexes. Desks for international and local rental companies operate at the airport and in the city. If you are driving to the airport in your own or a rented vehicle, paid parking is available on the premises, where you can leave the car for both short and long periods.

Chiclayo Airport, officially known as Capitán FAP José Abelardo Quiñones Gonzáles International Airport (CIX), is a compact and functional aviation hub. Its main feature is simplicity and clarity, making it convenient even for those visiting for the first time.

The airport operates one passenger terminal, which handles both domestic and the limited number of international flights. Thanks to this, you do not have to worry about transferring between buildings or complex navigation. All infrastructure is located in a single building on one level, making movement as simple as possible.

The terminal layout is intuitive. Immediately upon entry, you find yourself in the public area where airline check-in counters are located. After completing check-in and dropping off luggage, you proceed to the security screening area, beyond which lies a small waiting hall for departing passengers. The arrivals area is located in another part of the building and includes a baggage claim belt and an exit to the public hall where passengers are met.

Due to the airport's small size, all procedures here proceed quite quickly. Check-in and security usually take no more than 20-30 minutes. Nevertheless, it is recommended to arrive at the airport typically 1.5-2 hours before a domestic flight departure to avoid rushing in case of unforeseen queues. Navigating the terminal will not cause difficulties: all zones are clearly marked, and staff are always ready to assist.

Capitán FAP José Abelardo Quiñones Gonzáles International Airport (IATA: CIX), serving the city of Chiclayo and the entire Lambayeque region, has a rich history closely tied to the development of aviation in Peru. Its story is not just a chronicle of construction, but a tribute to a national hero and a testament to the strategic importance of the country's northern region.

The airport was officially opened on 16 April 1956. From the very beginning, it was designed as a dual-purpose facility, which remains its distinctive feature today. In addition to serving civil flights, it became an important base for the Peruvian Air Force, housing the 6th Air Group (Grupo Aéreo N° 6). This combination of civil and military aviation highlighted its strategic significance for the nation.

The most interesting fact in the airport's history is its name. It is named after José Abelardo Quiñones Gonzáles, a Peruvian military pilot and national hero who died heroically during the Ecuadorian–Peruvian War in 1941. Bestowing his name upon the airport became a symbol of national pride and immortalised the memory of his sacrifice for future generations.

Throughout its history, the airport has undergone several stages of modernisation. The runway and terminal have been reconstructed multiple times to accommodate growing passenger traffic and accept more modern types of aircraft. In recent years, as part of a regional infrastructure development programme, projects have been launched to further expand and improve the airport, promising to open a new chapter in its history and strengthen its role as a key transport hub in northern Peru.

Capitán FAP José A. Quiñones Gonzáles Airport in Chiclayo (CIX), also known as Cornel Ruiz Airport, offers passengers all necessary services for a comfortable wait for their flight. Despite its compact size, the terminal is well-equipped to meet the basic needs of travellers.

Inside, you will find several cafés and snack bars where you can have a bite to eat, drink Peruvian coffee, or enjoy refreshing beverages. There are also shops offering souvenirs, local handicrafts, sweets, and travel essentials. This is an excellent place to buy last-minute gifts.

For a more comfortable wait, the airport provides general lounges and typically features a VIP lounge (Caral VIP Lounge), access to which can be obtained for a fee or via specific loyalty programme cards. Passengers have access to complimentary Wi-Fi, and charging stations for mobile devices are installed in the waiting areas. For financial transactions, the terminal has ATMs and a currency exchange point.

The airport cares for all categories of passengers. There is a medical point for first aid. For travellers with small children, nursing rooms are equipped. Passengers with reduced mobility can rely on special assistance, ramps, and equipped restrooms. There are no hotels directly on the airport grounds, but many accommodation options are located a few minutes' drive away in the city of Chiclayo. There are no specialised conference halls in the terminal, but the quiet atmosphere allows for work on a laptop in one of the cafés or the VIP lounge if necessary.

Capitán FAP José Abelardo Quiñones Gonzáles International Airport (CIX), serving the city of Chiclayo, is a compact regional airport. Dining options here are primarily oriented towards the convenience of passengers needing a quick snack before departure. All establishments are located within a single small terminal, so finding them is effortless.

The main dining area is located in the public hall before security control (landside). A small café usually operates here, where you can order coffee, fresh juices, sandwiches, and a variety of pastries. This is the best place in the airport for a more substantial snack. To experience local flavours, look out for Peruvian empanadas (pastries filled with meat or cheese) and try the national soft drink Inca Kola.

After passing through security, in the departure zone (airside), the selection is typically more limited. Usually, there is a small kiosk or vending machine where you can buy bottled drinks, coffee, and packaged snacks such as chips or biscuits. This is a convenient option if you wish to grab something to take with you immediately before boarding your flight.

Passengers with special dietary requirements should note that finding specialised dishes at Chiclayo Airport may be difficult. Dedicated Halal, vegan, or gluten-free menus are likely not available. Vegetarians may find simple options, such as a cheese empanada. If you have strict dietary restrictions, it is recommended to bring food with you.

Prices in the airport cafés are moderate, though, as with most air terminals, slightly higher than in the city. Opening hours are directly linked to the flight schedule — they open to serve passengers of the first morning flights and close after the departure of the last evening aircraft. Therefore, you will always be able to find a place for a snack as long as there are departures or arrivals at the airport.

When planning a departure from Cornel Ruiz Airport in the city of Chiclayo, it is worth considering a few points to ensure your journey begins smoothly and without stress. This is an important aviation hub for northern Peru, but it is noticeably smaller than the capital's airport, making it easier to navigate. To avoid rushing, arrive approximately 2 hours before departure for a domestic flight and 3 hours before an international one. Checking in online will save you precious time at the counters.

Check-in and security procedures here are standard but generally proceed faster due to the smaller flow of passengers. Nevertheless, always keep your passport and boarding pass at hand. When choosing a seat on the plane, especially if your route passes over the Andes, ask for a window seat. In clear weather, the views can be simply unforgettable!

International standards apply to hand luggage: liquids in containers of no more than 100 ml each, packed in a transparent bag; no sharp objects or flammable substances. It is important to remember that portable chargers (power banks) and spare lithium batteries are permitted only in hand luggage. Before travelling, be sure to check the baggage and hand luggage allowances on your airline's website.

If you have a connecting flight, for example in Lima, clarify at check-in whether you will need to collect and re-check your luggage. Leave a sufficient time gap between flights to calmly clear all formalities. Upon entering the country via an international terminal, you will need to pass through customs control. Fill out the declaration honestly and remember that the import of many agricultural products (fruits, vegetables, seeds) is restricted.

To save time and money, book a taxi at the official counters in the arrivals hall or via reliable apps, rather than with private drivers at the exit. Prices at cafés within the airport may be higher than average, so having your own water bottle (which can be filled after security) and light snacks will be very useful.

In the event of a flight delay or cancellation, remain calm. First, find your airline representative to obtain current information. Depending on the length of the wait, you may be provided with drinks, meals, or even hotel accommodation. Having travel insurance will help compensate for unforeseen expenses, so do not forget to keep all receipts.