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United · Route guide

United Airlines Flights from Houston (IAH) to Lima (LIM)

Everything you need to fly Houston to Lima: when to go, who flies it, what it costs, and how to land well.

1 airline on this route · Daily Year-Round

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Airline

United

Aircraft

B737-900ER / B787-9

Service

Daily Year-Round

Region

Latin America

The route

The direct route from Houston to Lima serves as a premier gateway connecting the United States to the heart of South America. Operated by United Airlines, this daily service provides a reliable and efficient link for travelers heading to Peru's vibrant capital, known for its world-class gastronomy and rich colonial history.

Departing from George Bush Intercontinental Airport (IAH) and arriving at Jorge Chavez International Airport (LIM), this flight covers approximately 3,100 miles. Passengers can enjoy a seamless journey between these two major hubs with modern aircraft and professional service.

As a major hub for United, Houston offers unparalleled connectivity for passengers across North America. This route is particularly significant for both business professionals visiting Peru's economic center and tourists using Lima as a jumping-off point for expeditions to Cusco and Machu Picchu.
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Airports

Taking off, touching down.

Check-in, security, connections and getting into town at both ends of the flight.

Departure

George Bush Intercontinental Airport (IAH)

IAH
Check-in
Check in at Terminal E, which handles most of United's international departures, at least 3 hours before take-off.
Security
TSA PreCheck is available, but international departure lanes can be busy during the late evening bank of flights.
Connections
The airport is well-connected via the Skyway and Subway systems between terminals.
Arrival

Jorge Chavez International Airport (LIM)

LIM
On arrival
Immigration queues can be long in the late evening; ensure all entry forms are completed before landing.
Ground transport
Use licensed taxi services like Taxi Directo or Green Taxi, which have counters inside the arrivals hall.
Planning ahead
Lima is the primary hub for domestic flights to Cusco, Arequipa, and Iquitos.
Timing & fares

When it flies, what it costs.

Schedule & reliability

Schedule
Flights usually depart Houston in the late evening and arrive in Lima in the early morning hours.
Duration
The southbound flight is typically faster due to prevailing wind patterns.
Seasonality
The schedule remains consistent year-round with daily availability.
Time zones
Lima is on Peru Time (PET), which does not observe daylight savings, so it is often the same as or one hour ahead of Houston.

Fares & booking

Booking window
Fares are generally lowest when booked 2 to 3 months before departure.
Cabin advice
United Polaris is highly recommended on the B787-9 for those looking to sleep comfortably on the red-eye journey.
Peak pricing
Prices spike significantly during late December and the July Independence Day holidays in Peru.
  • Book at least 8 weeks in advance for the most competitive fares
  • Look for B787-9 Dreamliner flights for a more comfortable cabin environment
  • Use United's flexible date search to find lower-priced midweek departures

Peak season

July, August, and December are the busiest months for this route.

Shoulder season

April, May, September, and October offer a good balance of price and weather.

Off-peak season

January and February see lower demand for inland Peru due to the rainy season in the mountains.

Tours and experiences at either end

Vetted day trips and activities in Lima and Houston, through our travel partner.

When to fly

Best Time to Fly Houston to Lima

  1. 01

    December to March

    Summer in Lima, offering the best beach weather and clear skies.

  2. 02

    May to September

    Peak season for the Andes; though Lima may be misty, it is the best time for onward travel to Machu Picchu.

Trip planning

Who this route suits best.

Culinary Tourists

Direct access to one of the world's most acclaimed food scenes in Lima.

Adventure Travelers

The most efficient way to connect from the US South to the Peruvian Andes.

Business Professionals

Consistent daily schedules and premium cabin options for corporate travel.

Connections & alternatives

Cusco (CUZ)

The primary destination for travelers visiting the ancient Incan ruins.

Iquitos (IQT)

The gateway for Amazon River cruises and jungle expeditions.

Field notes

Travel Tips for the Houston-Lima Route

Visa & entry

  • US citizens typically do not need a visa for tourist stays up to 183 days
  • Ensure your passport is valid for at least six months from your date of entry
  • Be prepared to show proof of onward or return travel to immigration officers

Airport transfers

  • The Airport Express Lima bus is a reliable and safe way to reach the Miraflores district
  • Avoid accepting rides from unofficial drivers waiting outside the terminal building
  • Consider pre-arranging a hotel shuttle for a smoother arrival experience at night

Baggage & transit

  • Check your specific fare class for baggage allowances as international rules vary
  • Keep essential medications and documents in your carry-on for easy access during customs
  • Lima can be a busy transit hub; allow at least 3 hours for domestic connections

Checklist

  • Valid Passport with 6 months validity
  • Confirmation of return flight
  • Universal power adapter for Type A and C outlets
  • Light jacket for the air-conditioned cabin
Carriers

Airlines Flying Houston to Lima

United

Daily year-round service

Operates with both narrow-body B737-900ER and wide-body B787-9 Dreamliner equipment

FAQ

Common questions.

Straight answers about flying Houston to Lima.

How long is the flight from Houston to Lima?

The average flight time is approximately 6 hours and 30 minutes.

What terminal does United fly out of in Houston for Lima?

United typically operates its international flights from Terminal E at George Bush Intercontinental Airport.

Does United use the Dreamliner on the Houston to Lima route?

Yes, United frequently operates the Boeing 787-9 Dreamliner on this route, though the B737-900ER is also used.

Is there a time difference between Houston and Lima?

Lima is in the Peru Time (PET) zone. Depending on Daylight Saving Time in the US, Lima is either at the same time as Houston or one hour ahead.

Are meals provided on the United flight to Lima?

Yes, United provides complimentary meal service and beverages on this international long-haul route.

Your travel vault

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  1. 1Use the Borderly platform to log your flight from IAH to LIM
  2. 2Save your boarding pass data to track your total miles flown with United
  3. 3Monitor your flight history to see patterns in airline performance and timing
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