# Arica Airport (ACM)

> Arica, CO · 18 km (11 mi) NE of Arica

Web: https://airport.flights/airport/acm
JSON: https://airport.flights/api/airport/acm.json

## Facts

- **IATA**: ACM
- **ICAO**: ACM
- **Timezone**: America/Lima
- **Runways**: 2
- **Terminals**: 1
- **Passengers**: .4M/yr

## Overview

## Welcome

Arica Airport (ACM) in Colombia brings to mind a jungle airstrip more than a typical airport. Imagine a place where most tasks are managed informally on the apron amidst rolling Amazonian scenery. This tiny terminal, with its apron-side charm, is where knowing your transport and cash options towers over any need for lounges or food courts. Consequently, if you're expecting to find anything standard, Arica forces a rethink.

## At a glance

Handling about 400,000 passengers annually, Arica Airport features a single Main Terminal serving Latam Airlines and Sky Airline. Located 18 km (11 mi) northeast of Arica, the airport's basic infrastructure includes no restaurants, shops, or lounges, underscoring the need to prepare before arrival. Flight reliability can be a worry here, given that there’s usually only one flight per route per day.

## Terminals & layout

Arica's Main Terminal functions more like a cross between a shed and a waiting area. Without jet bridges or formal check-in desks, operations rely heavily on local relationships and cash transactions. Boarding and deplaning often occur on foot directly on the apron, exposing passengers to the elements, so be prepared with a light jacket for sun or rain.

## Getting to and from the city

Transport into Arica is handled by a patch of informal taxis and moto-taxis. Expect to pay with cash, specifically in small COP denominations, since cards are typically not an option. Arica lacks organized ride-shares and dedicated airport taxi services, so plan accordingly. If you’re renting a car, pre-arrange with a local agency in town as there are no rental desks on-site.

## Traveller essentials

Wi-Fi isn't reliable – often non-existent or restricted to staff – so download everything you need before arriving. Power outlets can be few and far between, usually limited to a few wall sockets often near staff areas. Ensure your devices are fully charged or secure a spot early. Additionally, pack a basic comfort kit including water, mosquito repellent, and toilet paper, anticipating the occasional inconvenience in amenities typical to these jungle-edge airports.

## Dining & shopping highlights

There are zero dining and shopping options available at Arica. Travelers must bring all snacks and beverages from Arica town. Keep in mind that even vending machines are often out of order or absent. It's a functional approach to pack meals from town to avoid hunger during long waits or unexpected delays.

## Lounges

Arica Airport doesn't have lounges, which aligns with its minimal setup. Travelers shouldn't expect any premium services or lounge facilities, reinforcing the advice to manage comfort and sustenance independently.

## Insider tips

- **Insider:** Bring snacks and drinks from town. The airport often lacks functioning food outlets, meaning you might find nothing to buy either landside or airside.

- **Money:** Carry small denomination COP cash for informal taxis. Drivers typically won't accept cards, and there are no ATMs.

- **Avoid:** Don't rely on airport Wi-Fi; it may be non-existent. Have offline access to important documents and maps.

- **Time:** Budget extra time for baggage handling; assume no automatic checked-bag transfers.

- **Local:** For a deeper cultural experience, converse with locals in the informal outdoor waiting area and soak in the unique social atmosphere.

- **Quiet:** Take advantage of the scenic, low-traffic taxi ride between town and the airport on clear days for some preflight relaxation.

- **Avoid:** Be mindful of the minimal information flow; confirm flight details directly with your airline in advance to avoid surprises.

## Terminals (1)

- **Main Terminal** — Latam Airlines, Sky Airline

## Insider tips

- _Insider_: Bring snacks and drinks from town. The airport often lacks functioning food outlets, meaning you might find nothing to buy either landside or airside.
- _Money_: Carry small denomination COP cash for informal taxis. Drivers typically won't accept cards, and there are no ATMs.
- _Avoid_: Don't rely on airport Wi-Fi; it may be non-existent. Have offline access to important documents and maps.
- _Time_: Budget extra time for baggage handling; assume no automatic checked-bag transfers.
- _Local_: For a deeper cultural experience, converse with locals in the informal outdoor waiting area and soak in the unique social atmosphere.
- _Quiet_: Take advantage of the scenic, low-traffic taxi ride between town and the airport on clear days for some preflight relaxation.
- _Avoid_: Be mindful of the minimal information flow; confirm flight details directly with your airline in advance to avoid surprises.