Tour guides begin sit-in at Cusco's airport

On 22 April 2009 approximately 200 tour guides began a sit-in at Cusco’s Velasco Astete International Airport (SPZO/CUZ) to protest a new tourism law they claim will limit their ability to provide services. The protesters blocked the entrance and exit gate at the aerial terminal, interrupting the transit of passengers. One of the protesters was arrested for breaking the windows of a vehicle. Earlier on 22 April another group of protesters blocked the rail line leading to Machu Picchu, but left peacefully after local leaders intervened. Protest leaders announced that they will continue the sit-in at the airport until national authorities reconsider the law.