LATAM Airlines has announced the cancellation of its direct flights from Belo Horizonte (CNF) and Florianópolis (FLN) to Lima (LIM), citing a sharp increase in airport fees at Peru’s main international gateway.
According to the airline, the higher charges at Lima’s Jorge Chávez International Airport made the routes economically unviable, despite solid demand and good passenger load factors.
Why LATAM Is Cutting These Routes
The decision follows recent adjustments to airport tariffs in Lima, which significantly raised operating costs for airlines. LATAM stated that the new fee structure directly impacts route profitability, especially on medium-haul international services connecting Brazil’s regional capitals to Peru.
While Lima remains one of LATAM’s most important hubs in South America, the airline emphasized that sustainable operations depend on balanced costs and predictable regulatory conditions.
Routes Affected
The suspended routes are:
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Belo Horizonte (CNF) – Lima (LIM)
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Florianópolis (FLN) – Lima (LIM)
Passengers holding tickets on these flights are being offered rebooking options through other Brazilian cities, refunds, or alternative itineraries within LATAM’s network.
Impact on Travelers
For travelers in southern and southeastern Brazil, the cancellations mean fewer nonstop options to Peru and onward connections to destinations such as Mexico, the United States, and Central America via Lima.
Passengers can still reach Lima with connections through:
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São Paulo (Guarulhos)
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Rio de Janeiro (Galeão)
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Other LATAM hub cities
A Broader Industry Signal
LATAM’s move highlights a broader concern within the aviation industry: rising airport and regulatory costs can quickly affect route viability, even on popular international markets. Airlines across Latin America have increasingly warned that fee hikes often translate into fewer routes, reduced connectivity, and higher fares.
As Lima continues to expand and modernize its airport infrastructure, airlines and regulators will need to find a balance that preserves connectivity while supporting long-term growth.
