Airport-driven urban transformation and emergent collective dynamics in Amazonian intermediate cities: evidence from Tarapoto, Peru

Garcia Cruz J.M.; Huanca Mozombite J.A.; Zavaleta Rioja J.J.; Zapata Antesana A.C. · Frontiers in Sustainable Cities (2026) · DOI: 10.3389/frsc.2026.1840137

Resumen

Introduction – Airport infrastructure can act as a driver of urban transformation, particularly in intermediate cities where urban growth may outpace planning capacity. This study examines the influence of airport infrastructure on the transformation of the urban landscape of Tarapoto, an Amazonian intermediate city in northern Peru. Methods – A mixed and exploratory case-study approach was adopted, combining documentary analysis, cartographic analysis, structured direct observation, spatial interpretation, and semi-structured interviews. The historical evolution of the urban landscape was analyzed from 1865 to 2025, with particular emphasis on the period 2009-2025. Twelve participants, including residents, urban professionals, and local authorities, were interviewed using snowball sampling. Satellite imagery, urban planning documents, zoning information, and aerial photographs obtained with a drone were also analyzed. Results – The findings indicate that the Guillermo del Castillo Paredes Airport has progressively become a structuring axis of urban expansion. Its surroundings experienced increased residential and commercial densification, changes in land use, reduction and fragmentation of green spaces, and increased pressure on mobility and public space. The analysis also identified differentiated perceptions among local stakeholders, with economic opportunities and improved connectivity coexisting with concerns regarding noise, traffic, environmental degradation, and urban disorder. Discussion – The case of Tarapoto demonstrates that airport infrastructure can improve connectivity and stimulate economic activity while simultaneously generating environmental and socio-spatial pressures when urban growth is not accompanied by coordinated land-use planning. The findings highlight the need to integrate airport infrastructure, urban development, environmental conservation, and social inclusion within comprehensive territorial planning strategies. Copyright

Instituciones: Universidad Peruana Unión