Rodríguez Ballón International Airport (AQP)

Rodríguez Ballón International Airport (AQP) serves Arequipa, the second-largest city in Peru, and acts as a crucial hub for the southern part of the country. The airport features a modern, two-story terminal building that has undergone significant renovations to improve capacity and passenger comfort. The ground floor is dedicated to check-in counters and the arrivals hall, while the upper level houses the security checkpoints and departure gates. The facility is equipped with jet bridges (boarding bridges), streamlining the boarding process for major carriers, although some regional flights may still use apron positions.

Security and operational procedures are efficient and align with international standards. Passengers proceeding to the second floor for departure will pass through security screening before entering the airside commercial zone. While primarily a domestic hub connecting to Lima and Cusco, the airport holds international status and can process flights to destinations such as Santiago, Chile, with immigration counters activated for these specific routes. Travelers should be aware that flight schedules can sometimes be affected by afternoon winds or fog, a common weather phenomenon in this high-altitude region.

The terminal offers a solid range of amenities for travelers. The departure lounge features several retail outlets selling Peruvian handicrafts, alpaca wool products, and souvenirs, alongside cafés and snack bars. There is also a VIP lounge available for eligible passengers seeking a quieter environment. One of the airport's most striking features is the panoramic view from the waiting areas, offering spectacular vistas of the El Misti and Chachani volcanoes. Ground transportation options, including official taxi services and shuttles, are readily available curbside to connect passengers to the historic city center.