Chimoré Airport (CCA)

Chimoré Airport (CCA), also known by its ICAO code SLHI, is a modern and strategically significant aviation facility located in the municipality of Chimoré, within the Cochabamba Department of Bolivia. Situated in the heart of the tropical Chapare region, the airport serves as a critical gateway to the Amazonian lowlands and the surrounding biodiverse ecosystems. The airport was inaugurated in 2015 as part of a major national effort to enhance regional connectivity and support the economic development of central Bolivia. The airport features a well-equipped, modern passenger terminal designed to handle both domestic and potential international traffic. While its primary function is currently domestic, the facility includes essential amenities such as comfortable waiting areas, administrative offices, and integrated security and passport control zones. A standout feature of Chimoré is its exceptionally long asphalt runway, which measures 4,000 meters (13,123 feet) in length—one of the longest in South America. This robust infrastructure allows the airport to accommodate almost any type of commercial or cargo aircraft, including wide-body liners, making it a highly capable hub for specialized operations. Currently, Chimoré Airport primarily facilitates private charters, government transport, and occasional scheduled domestic services. Its role is fundamental to the regional logistics network, providing a rapid link for personnel and high-value tropical products to the major cities of the Bolivian highlands. The airport also serves as an important base for the Bolivian Air Force and anti-narcotics operations in the region. For travelers, the airport offers an efficient and less congested experience compared to the major hubs in Cochabamba or Santa Cruz, with ground transportation tocentral Chimoré readily available via local taxis and private shuttles. Its presence is a key driver for the growing eco-tourism sector in the tropical regions of central Bolivia.