Shumba Airport

Shumba Airport, officially named after Fernando Belaúnde Terry, is not merely a transport hub but a true gateway to the world of the "high jungle" and the mysterious civilizations of northern Peru. Located in a picturesque valley surrounded by green hills, it serves as the main starting point for travellers aiming to see the legendary Kuelap fortress and one of the world's highest waterfalls, Gocta. Here, where the air is already filled with the humid warmth of the Amazon, begins your introduction to the rich nature and culture of the Cajamarca region.

Features and Advantages of the Airport:

Shumba Airport plays a strategically important role in the tourism logistics of northern Peru. Before its major modernisation in 2016 and the launch of regular commercial flights, the journey to the main attractions of the Amazonas region took long hours of tiring driving from the coast. Today, this small but functional airport allows for significant time savings, making the journey to the cloud forests more accessible and comfortable.

Among the main advantages of this air harbour are its compactness and simplicity. Passengers do not need to spend time on long transfers between terminals: all procedures, from check-in to boarding, are completed quickly and without unnecessary fuss. Furthermore, the views from the window during take-off and landing reveal breathtaking scenery of the Marañón River valley and the green slopes of the Andes, making the beginning or end of your trip truly memorable.

Below you will find contact information for Shumba Airport (JAE), serving the city of Jaén in Peru. Please note that for regional airports, some data may be limited.

• Official Website: Shumba Airport is managed by the Peruvian corporation CORPAC S.A. The airport does not have its own separate website, but general information is available on the operator's resources.
• Information Desk Phone: For inquiries, you may call: +51 943 839 313. It is recommended to verify the operating hours of the information service.
• Airport Address: Carretera Jaén - San Ignacio Km. 3.5, Jaén City, Cajamarca Region, Peru.
• Email: A dedicated email address for Jaén Airport is generally not published. For communication, it is recommended to use the telephone or general contact forms on the CORPAC operator's website.
• Social Media: Small regional airports rarely have their own pages on social networks. News can be followed on the official accounts of the operator, CORPAC.
• Lost Luggage Information: Issues related to lost or damaged luggage should be addressed directly to your airline representatives, rather than the airport administration.
• Passenger Support Contacts: For general questions regarding airport operations, you may contact the number listed above. For information about flights, check-in, and other flight-related services, please contact your airline.

Getting to Shumba Airport (IATA: JAE) from the city of Jaén is straightforward, as it is located relatively close to the centre. Travellers can choose from several methods depending on their budget, time, and comfort preferences. The journey from the city centre usually takes between 20 to 40 minutes.

Public Transport in Jaén is represented mainly by minibuses (combis or colectivos) and mototaxis. This is the most budget-friendly way to reach the airport. Mototaxis are three-wheeled motorcycles with a cabin for passengers, which are an integral part of the transport system in many cities in Peru. A trip on them will be quick and inexpensive, though it may not be very comfortable if you have large luggage. Minibuses also run towards the airport, but it is best to check their schedule and route with locals. The fare is usually nominal.

Taxi or Transfer is the most comfortable and predictable option. You can hail a car in the city or ask your hotel to order one. It is strongly recommended to agree on the fare in advance with the driver, as taximeters are rarely used. A taxi ride ensures comfort, especially if you are travelling with suitcases, and will deliver you directly to the terminal without unnecessary stops.

Car Rental provides maximum freedom of movement, which is particularly relevant if you plan to explore the picturesque surroundings of Jaén, known for their coffee plantations. Several rental agencies offer their services in the city. Having your own transport will allow you not to depend on schedules and to reach the airport at a time convenient for you. Shumba Airport has parking facilities where you can leave a car for both short and long periods.

When planning a trip to this region, it is also useful to know about alternative air harbours. Depending on your route, airports in Chachapoyas, Cajamarca, Chiclayo, or Piura might be convenient for you. If you are travelling from Ecuador, the nearest option would be the airport in Loja.

Shumba Airport (JAE), serving the city of Jaén and its surroundings, represents a small and compact aviation hub. Its infrastructure is simple and intuitive, making the stay here maximally convenient for passengers.

The airport consists of one passenger terminal, which handles both departing and arriving flights. Thanks to its modest size, all zones are within walking distance of each other, and there is no need for transfers between terminals. The terminal layout is very simple: upon entering the building, you immediately find yourself in the general area where the check-in counters are located.

The departure and arrival zones are clearly separated but located in the same building. The departure zone includes several check-in counters and a security checkpoint, after passing which passengers enter a small waiting hall. The arrival zone consists of a baggage claim hall located next to the exit to the city. Due to the compactness of the terminal, navigation causes no difficulties, and all signs are clear and clearly visible.

Completing all pre-flight formalities, such as flight check-in and security screening, usually takes very little time. There are rarely long queues at the airport. Nevertheless, it is recommended to arrive at the airport approximately 1.5–2 hours before the departure of a domestic flight to go through all procedures without rushing.

To orient yourself in the airport, simply follow the standard signs. Since there is only one terminal and its layout is linear, getting lost here is practically impossible. All necessary flight information is displayed on electronic boards in the general hall and in the departure waiting area.

The history of the airport in the city of Jaén, known as Shumba, is a vivid example of the transformation of a modest airfield into an important regional transport hub. Officially, the airport bears the name of Fernando Belaúnde Terry (Aeropuerto Fernando Belaúnde Terry), but the local name Shumba is firmly established in everyday use. Its modern history began not so long ago, but it has fundamentally changed the life of the entire region.

For a long time, only a small airfield with a dirt runway existed on the site of the modern airport. It was used mainly for small aviation and military needs, lacking the capacity to receive large commercial flights. This significantly limited transport accessibility to the Jaén and San Ignacio provinces, known for their coffee and cocoa plantations.

A key stage in the airport's history was its large-scale reconstruction, completed in 2016. During the modernisation, a new asphalt runway over 2,400 metres long was built, a modern passenger terminal and control tower were erected, and new air navigation equipment was installed. This event was a real breakthrough, allowing the reception of medium-haul aircraft such as the Airbus A319.

With the opening of the renovated airport in Jaén, regular commercial flights by major airlines began, connecting the region with Lima. This achievement had immense significance for the economy: it significantly simplified logistics for coffee and cocoa exporters, and also opened the northern regions of Peru to tourists. The airport became the main gateway for travellers heading to attractions such as the Kuelap fortress and Gocta waterfall.

Interesting fact: thanks to its strategic location, Shumba Airport today serves not only the Cajamarca province, where it is located, but also the neighbouring Amazonas region. Its rapid development is a story of how modern infrastructure can breathe new life into remote, yet culturally and naturally rich corners of the country.

Jaén Airport (JAE), serving the picturesque region in northern Peru, is a compact and functional air hub. Despite its modest size, it offers passengers all the essential services needed for a comfortable start or end to a journey.

While waiting for your flight, you can have a snack at small cafés serving light bites, sandwiches, and beverages. Souvenir stalls also operate here, where you can buy local crafts and the coffee for which this region is famous as a keepsake. The main waiting hall is equipped with seating for all passengers.

For the convenience of travellers, there are charging stations for electronic devices in the terminal. Access to the Wi-Fi network may be provided, but its stability and conditions are best checked on-site. It is worth noting that specialised high-comfort lounges or VIP lounges are generally absent at Shumba Airport.

Regarding financial services, ATMs for cash withdrawal are available at the airport. However, currency exchange points are difficult to find here, so it is recommended to arrange currency exchange in the city beforehand. For any questions, you can approach the information desk.

The airport is adapted to serve passengers with special needs. Assistance is provided for moving through the terminal and boarding the aircraft; however, you should notify your airline in advance about the need for such a service. Facilities for travellers with small children, such as mother and child rooms, may be available.

A medical point operates on the airport territory, ready to provide first aid if necessary. There are no hotels directly within the terminal building, but various accommodation options can easily be found in the nearby city of Jaén, which can be quickly reached by taxi. Business centre services and conference rooms are not provided at the airport.

When planning a snack at Shumba Airport (JAE), it is important to remember that this is a small regional airport, so the choice of establishments here is quite modest, though sufficient to satisfy hunger before departure. Dining options are mainly concentrated in the main terminal building and are oriented towards quick and convenient service.

Inside, you will likely find one or several small cafés or snack bars located in the general area or in the departure lounge after passing security control. The assortment in such establishments usually includes a standard set for a traveller: fresh sandwiches, pastries, packaged snacks, as well as hot and cold beverages such as coffee, tea, juices, and bottled water.

Although there are no full-service restaurants with extensive menus here, you may have the chance to try some local products. For example, cafés might serve coffee grown in the Jaén region, which is famous for its quality in Peru. As for prices, be prepared that they are noticeably higher than in the city. A standard snack consisting of coffee and a sandwich may cost an amount equivalent to 7–12 US dollars. For a full lunch or dinner, it is recommended to eat at one of the city's establishments before arriving at the airport.

The operating hours of cafés and snack bars at Shumba Airport are generally tied to the flight schedule — they are open during departure and arrival times. If you have specific dietary requirements (e.g., vegetarian, halal, or gluten-free options), the selection will likely be very limited. Passengers with strict dietary restrictions are advised to carry their own snacks.

To ensure your journey through Shumba Airport, serving the city of Jaén and its surroundings in Peru, goes as smoothly as possible, make use of these tips. The airport is small and primarily serves domestic flights, making it quite easy to navigate.

Arrival Time and Check-in. For domestic flights, it is recommended to arrive at the airport 1.5-2 hours before departure. Although the airport is small and queues are rarely long, it is better to have a time buffer. Most airlines flying from Jaén offer online check-in, which will help save time. Security checkpoints operate efficiently, but keep your passport and boarding pass ready.

Seat Selection and Hand Luggage. Flights in this region are often accompanied by breathtaking views of the Andes. To enjoy the panorama, choose a window seat. When packing hand luggage, remember standard rules: liquids in containers no larger than 100 ml, packed in a transparent bag, and no sharp objects. If you are carrying local products, such as coffee, ensure they are securely packed.

Passengers with Connections. Shumba Airport is not a major transfer hub. Most connecting flights are routed via Lima. If you have a transfer planned, allow sufficient time between flights (at least 3 hours), as regional flights may be delayed due to weather conditions in the mountains.

Customs Control. Since the airport serves mainly domestic flights, you will not have to go through international customs control here. However, airport security will check your luggage for prohibited items. If you are entering Peru via an international airport, be prepared to declare certain goods and cash exceeding the established limit.

Savings and Flight Delays. To save money, book tickets and airport transfers in advance. Travelling light with only hand luggage will save on baggage fees. In case of a flight delay, bear in mind that leisure facilities at the airport are limited. Bring a book, a charged power bank, and a light snack. Airline representatives will provide information on the status of your flight and further actions.