Location: Peru
Event: Charter Flight from Cusco to Lima on December 19 and Arequipa Airport Operations (December 18, 2022)
Although many U.S, citizens have departed Cusco since the airport resumed operations on December 16, and seats on commercial flights remain available during the week of December 19, the U.S. Embassy in Lima wishes to inform U.S. citizens that the Government of Mexico has arranged a charter flight from Cusco to Lima on Monday, December 19, and has limited seats available for U.S. citizens and others. The flight will depart from the Cusco airport at 17:46 (5:46 p.m.) and the cost is USD 125 per person. The seats are available on a first-come, first served basis. Payment will be required in advance. If you are interested in taking this flight, the Government of Mexico asks you to register at the following link: https://forms.gle/S532gypzUJv8Wfwu6
There have been calls for a general strike in Cusco on Monday, December 19, which will affect transportation in the city and may impact airport arrivals and departures. Demonstrations may occur in the city of Cusco. Roadblocks, traffic congestion, and disruptions are expected within the city. Consult with your hotel staff regarding transportation options to the airport; the hotel may be able to assist you in contacting the Tourist Police in Cusco to enquire about airport shuttles that may run to the airport from the Plaza de Armas in the event that taxis are unavailable during the strike. Because the Plaza de Armas may be a site of demonstrations, it is possible that the pickup location may be moved elsewhere and it is best to call to confirm before proceeding to the Plaza de Armas. Avoid areas of demonstrations, as protests and demonstrations can be unpredictable and quickly turn violent.
Local conditions permitting, the U.S. Consular Agency in Cusco is open for special emergency services at Avenida El Sol 449 in Cusco from 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p,m, from December 19 to December 23.
The Cusco Airport (CUZ) is open and flights are departing at a normal volume. Travelers should not travel to the airport until they have a confirmed flight that indicates it will depart on time and should carry a printed copy of their boarding pass or reservation. The front desk at your hotel can assist you with printing out your boarding pass; the Consular Agency can also assist you with printing boarding passes.
In Arequipa, multiple carriers have informed the U.S. Embassy that they are prepared to operate flights from Arequipa on December 19. Please check with your air carrier to confirm your flight status and/or request rebooking information.
Actions to Take:
· Avoid demonstrations.
· Monitor local media for updates.
· Follow traffic police instructions.
· Comply with instructions from the Peruvian National Police and local authorities.
· Register in STEP (https://step.state.gov/) to receive alerts and messaging from the U.S. Embassy in Lima.
For Assistance:
U.S. Embassy Lima, Peru
Avenida La Encalada cdra. 17 s/n
Santiago de Surco 15023, Lima
+51-1-618-2000
U.S. Consular Agency Cusco
Avenida El Sol 449, Cusco
State Department – Consular Affairs
+1-888-407-4747 or +1-202-501-4444