Carriel Sur Airport

Carriel Sur Airport is not merely the aerial gateway to Concepción and the Biobío region, but the second-largest aviation hub in Chile. Opened in 1968, it plays a key role in the country's transport system. Interestingly, Carriel Sur frequently serves as the primary alternate airfield for the capital's airport in Santiago, accepting international flights in case of adverse weather conditions. This highlights its strategic importance and high level of equipment.

Although the airport's primary traffic is domestic, it possesses all the attributes of a modern international terminal. Passengers have access to VIP lounges, cafes, and dining establishments. The airport serves as one of the hubs for JetSMART airlines, ensuring a wide selection of destinations across the country. The terminal, renovated in the 2000s, is convenient and easy to navigate. Furthermore, Carriel Sur is environmentally conscious: it is the first airport in the region to install a charging point for electric vehicles.

• Official Airport Website: Most current information, including flight schedules and services, can be found on the official website: www.aeropuertoconcepcion.cl.
• Information Desk Phone: For immediate information, you can call the number: +56 41 273 2000.
• Airport Address: Carriel Sur Airport is located at: Paicaví 3255, Talcahuano, Región del Bío Bío, Chile.
• Email: For general inquiries, it is recommended to use the contact form on the official website or call the information desk, as a public email for general questions is usually not provided.
• Social Media: Follow news and updates on the official pages of the airport or its management company on social networks. Specific links are best found on the official website.
• Lost Luggage Information: If your luggage was lost during the flight, you should primarily contact your airline's representative. For items forgotten within the terminal building, please contact the airport's Lost and Found service (Objetos Olvidados) via the main phone number.
• Passenger Support Contacts: For all questions, you can approach the information counters in the terminal or call the airport information service.

Carriel Sur Airport (CCP) is located just 8 kilometres northwest of the city centre of Concepción, making the journey there quick and convenient. The simplest and most comfortable way to reach the terminal is by taxi or transfer. The trip from the city centre usually takes 15-25 minutes depending on traffic conditions. You can use the official airport taxi services or book a car through apps popular in Chile, such as Uber or Didi. The cost will be higher than public transport, but it is the ideal option for travellers with large luggage or those who value time.

For a more budget-friendly journey, you can use public transport. Although there may not be direct city bus routes to the terminal itself, many stop in the immediate vicinity. Additionally, colectivos — shared taxis that run on fixed routes and offer a lower price compared to regular taxis — are widely common in the city. This is a great way to save money, but be prepared that the trip may take a little longer. There is no direct railway or metro connection to the airport.

If you plan to actively explore the region, car rental would be the best solution. Major international and local rental companies have offices at Carriel Sur Airport. Having a car will give you freedom of movement not only around the city but also allow you to easily reach other interesting places or neighbouring airports, such as Temuco (Maquehue), Pichoy Airport in Valdivia, or Cañal Bajo in Osorno. For those arriving at the airport in their own vehicle, convenient parking with zones for short-term and long-term stays is provided.

In summary, the choice of transport to Concepción airport depends on your priorities. Taxis offer maximum comfort, buses and colectivos offer savings, while a rented car offers complete freedom of action. We recommend planning your route in advance, especially if you are travelling during peak hours, to reach your flight without rushing.

Carriel Sur Airport (CCP) is distinguished by a modern and well-thought-out structure that makes it very convenient for passengers. The main feature of the airport is one passenger terminal serving all domestic and international flights. This compactness significantly simplifies navigation and eliminates the need to move between different buildings.

The terminal consists of a two-storey building. The ground floor houses the arrivals area, where passengers collect luggage from the carousels and pass through customs control if arriving from abroad. Car rental counters, taxi offices, and the exit to the city are also located here. The first floor is entirely dedicated to the departures area. This includes airline check-in counters, the security screening zone, and a spacious waiting hall with boarding gates.

Because there is only one terminal, transitions between zones are intuitive and do not take much time. All navigation is accompanied by clear signs in Spanish and English. After checking in on the first floor, you proceed immediately to the security checkpoint, beyond which access to the gates opens. For passenger convenience, the secure area features cafes, shops, and comfortable seating for waiting for flights.

Completing all formalities at Concepción airport usually proceeds quite quickly. It is recommended to arrive at the airport 1.5-2 hours before a domestic flight departure. This time is generally sufficient for calm check-in, luggage drop-off, and passing security control without haste. For international flights, it is worth allocating a bit more time — about 2.5-3 hours.

The history of Carriel Sur Airport (CCP) is inextricably linked with the development of the city of Concepción and the entire Biobío region. Officially opened in 1968, it replaced the old Hualpencillo airfield, becoming the new and modern aerial gateway for southern Chile. From the very beginning of its existence, the airport has played a key role in ensuring transport accessibility for this important industrial and academic centre.

The first decades of operation were marked by a gradual increase in passenger traffic and cargo turnover. A significant stage in development was the large-scale modernisation at the turn of the century. In 2001, a new, more spacious, and modern passenger terminal was opened, which significantly improved service quality and increased the airport's capacity, preparing it for the challenges of the new millennium.

One of the most dramatic events in the airport's history occurred on 27 February 2010, when a powerful earthquake caused serious damage to infrastructure, including the control tower and passenger terminal. Despite the damage, Carriel Sur demonstrated its strategic importance. It was quickly restored to receive flights and became a critically important centre for delivering humanitarian aid and transporting rescue workers and military personnel to affected areas, playing a key role in disaster relief efforts.

The latest major reconstruction, completed in 2021, brought the airport to a completely new level. The project included the construction of a new international terminal covering over 16,000 square metres, expansion of the aircraft parking apron, and the installation of four aerobridges. This modernisation not only increased capacity to 2 million passengers per year but also allowed for the reception of international flights, strengthening Concepción's status as an important transport hub on the map of South America.

Carriel Sur Airport (CCP), serving the city of Concepción, offers passengers all necessary services for a comfortable start or end to their journey through Chile. In the terminal, you will find several cafes where you can enjoy a cup of aromatic coffee and a quick snack, as well as restaurants with a more substantial menu. For those looking for souvenirs or travel goods, there are shops selling local products and travel essentials.

For passengers preferring to wait for their flight in a quieter environment, a VIP lounge is available. It offers comfortable seating, complimentary beverages and snacks, as well as a work area. Free Wi-Fi is available throughout the terminal, and special charging stations and sockets are provided in waiting areas for recharging gadgets.

ATMs and currency exchange points are located in the airport, allowing for convenient resolution of financial matters upon arrival or before departure. A first aid post is available in case of illness. For families with children, a mother and child room is equipped, and for passengers with reduced mobility, a barrier-free environment has been created, including ramps and adapted restrooms.

Although there are no hotels directly within the airport building, many accommodation options are located within a few minutes' drive. Specialised conference rooms are not provided in the terminal; however, the VIP lounge offers a sufficiently private and quiet space suitable for business meetings or work.

At Carriel Sur Airport (CCP), travellers can find several convenient and diverse options for a snack or a full meal. Although the airport is not a major international hub, both well-known global chains and establishments with local flair are represented here, so you can spend your time comfortably while waiting for your flight.

The majority of dining establishments are located in the public zone (landside), before passing security control. This is an excellent place to have coffee with those seeing you off. Here, you will likely find the popular coffee shop Dunkin' Donuts, ideal for a quick snack — doughnuts, sandwiches, and signature coffee. For a more substantial meal, you can visit the Gatsby restaurant, which offers a wide selection of Chilean and international cuisine.

After passing inspection, in the secure zone (airside), choices become more limited but sufficient for a snack before boarding. Usually, small cafes or kiosks offering drinks, pastries, and ready-made snacks are located here. Sometimes branches of the same chains as in the main zone can be found here, but with a more compact menu.

If you wish to try something from the local cuisine, be sure to look for Chilean empanadas — hearty pastries with various fillings, which can often be found in local cafes. For those who prefer familiar tastes, international chains offer a standard menu. Regarding special dietary needs, vegetarian options such as salads or meat-free sandwiches are generally available. However, choices for vegans or those requiring specific Halal or gluten-free meals may be limited; it is recommended to verify ingredients with the staff.

Prices in airport establishments at Carriel Sur are typically higher than in the city of Concepción, which is standard practice for air terminals. The operating hours of most cafes and restaurants are tied to the flight schedule: they open early in the morning and close after the departure of the last evening flight. When planning your journey from Chile, please note that 24-hour establishments are likely absent here.

To ensure your journey through Carriel Sur Airport goes as smoothly as possible, use these proven tips. They will help save time and reduce stress, making the wait for your flight more comfortable.

Arrival Time at the Airport: For domestic flights within Chile, it is recommended to arrive 1.5-2 hours before departure. If you have an international flight, it is better to arrive in advance — 2.5-3 hours prior. This will give you enough time to complete all formalities without haste, especially during peak hours.

Check-in and Security Control: The fastest way to check in for a flight is to do it online on your airline's website. This allows you to proceed immediately to the bag drop counter or, if travelling light, directly to security screening. Keep your passport and boarding pass handy. At security control, be prepared to remove laptops, tablets, and liquids from your hand luggage into a separate tray.

Seat Selection: Want to admire views of the Andes or the Pacific coast? Choose a window seat (A or F). Prefer freedom of movement to stretch your legs or easily access the restroom? Your choice would be an aisle seat (C or D). Study the aircraft layout in advance on sites like SeatGuru to avoid seats near restrooms or with limited legroom.

Hand Luggage: You can take electronics, documents, valuables, and necessary medicines (preferably with a prescription) in your hand luggage. Liquids are permitted in containers up to 100 ml, packed in a transparent bag. It is strictly prohibited to carry weapons, sharp objects, flammable substances, and other dangerous items. Always check the rules of the specific airline.

Transit Passengers: If you have a connecting flight in Concepción, clarify with the airline whether you need to collect your luggage and re-check it. For domestic transfers, this is usually not required, but when transferring from an international flight to a domestic one (or vice versa), you will likely have to pass through customs and passport control.

Customs Control: Chile has very strict rules regarding the import of plant and animal products. Be sure to declare any food (fruits, nuts, cheese, meat) to avoid large fines. If in doubt, it is better to ask a customs officer. This is one of the most important features when entering the country.

Saving Time and Money:

• Check in for your flight online.
• Bring an empty water bottle and fill it at a drinking fountain after passing security.
• Download films or books in advance so as not to spend money on onboard entertainment or expensive internet.
• Book airport transfers online in advance — this is often cheaper than taking a taxi on the spot.

Flight Delays: In case of a flight delay, first contact your airline representative for information. Monitor updates on the departure boards. Depending on the length of the delay, the airline may be obliged to provide you with drinks, meals, or even hotel accommodation. Keep receipts for unforeseen expenses and know your rights as a passenger.