Colonel FAP Alfredo Mendivil Duarte Airport | Moquegua

Colonel FAP Alfredo Mendivil Duarte Airport (Aeropuerto Coronel FAP Alfredo Mendivil Duarte) is the primary airport serving the Moquegua Region of southern Peru. It is located near the city of Moquegua, the capital of the region, and plays an important role in connecting the region to other parts of Peru.

Overview and History

Name:

• The airport is named after Colonel FAP Alfredo Mendivil Duarte, a Peruvian Air Force officer who was honored for his contributions to the country's aviation and military services.

Location:

• The airport is situated approximately 3 kilometers (1.9 miles) to the east of Moquegua City. It is strategically located to serve as a transportation hub for both domestic flights and regional connectivity.

Function:

• Colonel FAP Alfredo Mendivil Duarte Airport primarily serves domestic flights. It is a smaller airport, mainly facilitating travel within Peru. Its main role is to connect Moquegua to larger Peruvian cities such as Lima and Arequipa, as well as to neighboring regions.

Capacity:

• The airport is relatively modest in size but is capable of handling regional traffic efficiently. It has a runway suitable for small to medium-sized aircraft, which are common for domestic flights in Peru.

Establishment:

• The airport began operations in the mid-20th century and has undergone multiple upgrades over the years to enhance its infrastructure. The name reflects the contribution of Alfredo Mendivil Duarte, a key figure in the Peruvian Air Force's history.

Facilities

Terminal Building:

• The terminal building is compact and designed to accommodate domestic passengers. While it may not offer the extensive amenities found in larger airports, it provides essential services such as check-in counters, waiting areas, and basic airport security.

Runway and Aircraft:

• The airport features a runway long enough to handle small and regional aircraft, such as ATR turboprop planes, which are commonly used for domestic flights to and from Moquegua.

Services and Amenities:

• While the airport is relatively small, it does offer basic services such as:
  • Ticket counters for check-in.
  • Baggage handling services.
  • Taxi services and transportation to and from Moquegua City.
  • Some convenience stores and kiosks selling snacks and beverages.

Security and Customs:

• As a regional airport, Colonel FAP Alfredo Mendivil Duarte adheres to national aviation security protocols. It offers basic security checks for departing and arriving passengers, but customs services are generally only available for domestic flights.

Airlines and Destinations

1. Airlines:
   • The airport is served by a number of regional airlines that operate flights to and from major cities such as Lima and Arequipa. Airlines such as LATAM Airlines and Sky Airline typically offer services to and from Moquegua.
2. Destinations:
   • Lima: The capital city of Peru, which has major international connectivity and is a hub for domestic flights.
   • Arequipa: The second-largest city in Peru, known for its historical significance and proximity to the Colca Canyon.

Transportation and Access

Ground Transportation:

• The airport is easily accessible by road from the city of Moquegua. The distance of about 3 kilometers means that it is a quick trip by car or taxi, making it convenient for travelers.

Taxi Services:

• Taxis are available at the airport and can be booked directly upon arrival. These taxis offer transportation to various parts of Moquegua, including the city center and other nearby towns.

Public Transport:

• Although taxis are the primary means of transportation, public buses and other forms of transport are also available in the region. However, taxi services tend to be the most convenient option for travelers arriving at the airport.

Future Developments

1. Airport Expansion:
   • The Colonel FAP Alfredo Mendivil Duarte Airport has been gradually modernized over the years, but its smaller scale limits the volume of flights it can handle. There are ongoing discussions and plans to improve airport infrastructure, enhance passenger services, and potentially increase flight frequencies to other cities in Peru.
2. Improved Connectivity:
   • Future improvements to the airport could enhance regional connectivity, making it a more prominent hub for travelers seeking access to the Moquegua region and surrounding areas. This would likely attract more flights from domestic airlines and improve overall tourism and business travel to the region.

Why Visit Colonel FAP Alfredo Mendivil Duarte Airport?

Gateway to Moquegua:

• The airport serves as the primary gateway for travelers visiting the Moquegua region, which is home to important historical sites, archaeological landmarks, and natural beauty. Visitors can fly in and out of Moquegua to explore its culture, cuisine, and outdoor activities.

Convenience for Regional Travel:

• For those looking to travel within southern Peru, the airport provides an important connection between Moquegua and other key cities like Lima and Arequipa. This makes it easier for business travelers and tourists to move between different regions of Peru.

Proximity to Attractions:

• The airport is situated close to Moquegua’s key attractions, such as the Torata Church, Pucara de Tiliviche, and the Moquegua Valley. It allows travelers to easily access these historical and natural sites after arriving by plane.

Conclusion

The Colonel FAP Alfredo Mendivil Duarte Airport plays an important role in facilitating domestic air travel to and from the Moquegua region. While it may not be as large as other international airports in Peru, it provides vital connections for both tourists and business travelers. As the region continues to grow, there are opportunities for the airport to expand, improving access to one of Peru's most historically rich and culturally significant areas. Whether you’re flying to Moquegua for business, tourism, or exploration, this airport serves as a gateway to the southern Andes and coastal areas of Peru.