Chamonate Airport

Chamonate Airport (CPO), officially known as Desierto de Atacama Airport (Aeropuerto Desierto de Atacama), is the modern air gateway to one of the most mesmerising regions of Chile. Situated amidst unique Martian landscapes, it serves as the main access point to the city of Copiapó and popular coastal resorts. Opened in 2005, this airport replaced the old airfield and became a key transport hub for tourists and business travellers keen to explore the riches of the Atacama Desert, from its unearthly landscapes to its rich mining heritage.

Despite its modest size, Chamonate Airport efficiently handles passenger services, offering everything necessary for a comfortable start or end to your journey. A key advantage of the airport is its strategic location, which provides quick access not only to the administrative centre of Copiapó but also to the coastal city of Caldera and the popular resort of Bahía Inglesa, located just 20 km away. The main traffic consists of flights connecting the region with the capital, Santiago, making it a vital link in the country's transport system.

In the airport terminal, travellers will find car rental desks, taxi services, and transfer options that make it easy to reach your desired destination. There is also a small café and parking available for passengers. The modern runway, 2200 metres in length, is capable of accommodating popular medium-haul aircraft of the Airbus A320 family, operated by leading Chilean airlines.

Below is the essential contact information for Chamonate Airport (CPO), also known as Desierto de Atacama Airport.

• Official website: www.aeropuertodesiertodeatacama.cl
• Help desk phone: +56 52 227 0500
• Airport address: Ruta C-35 44, Caldera, Atacama, Chile
• Email: oic@aeropuertodesiertodeatacama.cl (for general inquiries, suggestions, and complaints)
• Social media: Currently, the airport does not have active official pages on popular social networks. It is recommended to check information on the official website.
• Lost luggage information: For issues related to lost or damaged luggage, please contact your airline's representative office first. If you have lost personal items within the terminal building, contact the airport information desk.
• Passenger support contacts: For assistance and consultations, you may use the general help desk phone number or send a request to the provided email address.

Chamonate Airport (CPO) is located approximately 50 kilometres north of the city of Copiapó, and there are several ways to get to the city centre. A journey by car usually takes about 45-50 minutes, although this time may vary depending on traffic conditions. When planning your route, consider that the airport serves a significant mining region of Chile, so transport links are well-established.

Taxis and Transfers. The simplest and most convenient way to reach the city is to use a taxi service or book a private transfer. Official taxi counters and transfer companies are located in the arrivals hall. This is the fastest option that will take you directly to your hotel or desired address. The cost of a taxi ride will be higher than other modes of transport, but it ensures maximum comfort, especially if you have a lot of luggage.

Shared Taxi (Colectivos). A popular and more budget-friendly alternative to private taxis are "colectivos" — shared taxis that transport multiple passengers along a fixed or similar route. This is an excellent compromise between price and convenience. Specialised "colectivos" run between the airport and the city centre; they can be found at the terminal exit. The trip will take a little longer due to stops for other passengers, but it will allow you to save significantly.

Car Rental. For those who value independence and plan to explore the surroundings of Copiapó, such as the Atacama Desert or national parks, car rental is the ideal solution. Offices of several major rental companies are present at Chamonate Airport. It is recommended to book a vehicle in advance, especially during the high tourist season, to guarantee availability and secure more favourable rates.

Public Transport and Parking. It is important to note that regular city bus routes do not enter the Chamonate Airport grounds directly. Therefore, travellers should rely on taxis, transfers, or car rentals. For those arriving at the airport in their own or rented vehicle, paid parking is provided where cars can be left for both short and long periods.

Chamonate Airport (CPO), also known as Desierto de Atacama Airport, serving the city of Copiapó, is a small and modern regional aviation hub. Its structure is very simple and intuitive, making it convenient for all categories of travellers.

One terminal for all operations. A key feature of the airport is the existence of only one passenger terminal. This compact building serves both arriving and departing flights. Thanks to this, you do not need to worry about transferring between buildings or finding the right gate — everything is in one place.

Simple and clear layout. The terminal has a logical layout. On the ground floor, you will generally find airline check-in counters and the baggage claim area for arriving passengers. After check-in, passengers proceed to the security screening area, followed by a small but comfortable waiting lounge with boarding gates. Navigation is simplified by clear signage and short distances.

Fast formalities. Due to its compact size and relatively low passenger flow, passing through check-in and security control at Chamonate Airport usually takes minimal time. Queues here are rare, however, it is still recommended to arrive at the airport 1.5-2 hours before departure to complete all pre-flight procedures without rushing.

Navigation tips. It is practically impossible to get lost in Chamonate Airport. All main zones — check-in, security, baggage claim, boarding gates — are located in close proximity to each other. After disembarking from the plane, you immediately enter the arrivals area, and for departure, simply follow the standard signs. No special walkways or transport are required to move around the airport.

The history of the airport in Copiapó is a story of development and overcoming challenges, reflecting the spirit of the entire Atacama region. It is important to note that the modern airport with the code CPO, known as Desierto de Atacama Airport (Aeropuerto Desierto de Atacama), is the successor to the old Chamonate airfield, which it replaced, inheriting its IATA code.

The new airport was opened on 9 February 2005. Its construction was a key stage in the development of Chile's infrastructure, as it was designed to accommodate larger aircraft and meet modern safety standards, unlike the old airfield which was limited by its location near the city. The main goal was to improve transport accessibility for the booming mining industry and the growing flow of tourists wishing to explore the beauties of the Atacama Desert.

One of the most dramatic and famous moments in the airport's history is linked to a global event in 2010 — the rescue of 33 Chilean miners from the collapsed San José mine. Desierto de Atacama Airport (CPO) became the main logistical and media hub for the operation. Rescuers, engineers, government delegations, and journalists from all over the world arrived here, and after the miraculous rescue, it was from here that the miners departed home to their families. This episode permanently inscribed the airport into the history of not only the region but the entire world.

Another serious test for the airport was the devastating floods in March 2015, when the Copiapó River overflowed its banks and flooded the surroundings. The runway and terminal were covered with a thick layer of mud, leading to the temporary closure of the air harbour. The subsequent large-scale reconstruction and modernisation not only restored the airport's operation but also improved its infrastructure, making it more resilient to such natural disasters. Today, the airport continues to serve as a vital air gateway into the heart of one of the driest deserts on the planet.

Chamonate Airport (CPO), serving the city of Copiapó, offers passengers all necessary amenities for a comfortable wait for their flight. Despite its compact size, the terminal is thoughtfully organised so that your journey through Chile begins and ends with maximum convenience.

Before departure, you can have a snack or a cup of coffee at one of the local cafés. Light snacks, sandwiches, and beverages are served here. There is also a small shop operating in the airport where you can purchase souvenirs, press, or travel essentials.

For those who need to stay connected, free Wi-Fi is available within the terminal. Charging stations for mobile devices are provided in the waiting lounge. Passengers preferring enhanced comfort may enquire about access to the VIP lounge, which offers a more secluded and quiet atmosphere for waiting to board.

ATMs are installed in the airport building, allowing you to easily withdraw cash before your trip. In case of unforeseen health situations, a first aid station operates in the terminal, where qualified personnel are ready to provide necessary support.

The airport is equipped for the needs of passengers with reduced mobility, including ramps and specially adapted restrooms. Staff are ready to provide assistance if necessary. For travellers with small children, mother and child rooms are provided where you can take care of your baby in a calm environment.

Although there are no hotels directly on the airport grounds, many accommodation options are available in the city of Copiapó, located a short drive away. Hotels can be reached by taxi or pre-booked transfer. Business services, such as conference room rentals, are also provided in the city's business centres and hotels.

Chamonate Airport (CPO) is a small regional airport, so the choice of dining establishments here is quite limited. It is designed primarily for passengers to have a quick snack before departure, but you will find everything necessary for a comfortable wait for your flight.

The main place to eat is a small café or snack bar. It is located in the main hall of the terminal, in the public area (before security control). Sometimes, after screening, in the departure area (airside), a small kiosk with beverages and packaged snacks may be operating. Due to the compact size of the airport, finding these establishments is effortless.

The menu usually features:

• Hot and cold beverages: coffee, tea, juices, water.
• Fresh pastries and sandwiches.
• Light snacks: crisps, chocolate, biscuits.

To experience local flavour, look for Chilean empanadas (stuffed pastries) — this is an excellent filling snack and an opportunity to get acquainted with the cuisine of Chile.

Passengers with special dietary requirements should note that the selection of vegetarian or gluten-free dishes is extremely limited or non-existent. If you have strict dietary restrictions, it is strongly recommended to bring food with you. Prices at the airport are generally higher than in Copiapó itself. Establishments operate according to the flight schedule, opening a few hours before the first departure and closing after the last flight leaves.

For a full lunch or dinner, it is better to choose one of the establishments in the city before travelling to the airport. The café at Chamonate is ideal for a light breakfast or a quick bite, but not for a substantial meal.

When planning a departure from Chamonate Airport, which serves the city of Copiapó, follow simple rules to ensure your journey starts without unnecessary stress. For domestic flights within Chile, it is recommended to arrive at the airport 1.5–2 hours before departure. Although Chamonate is a small airport and queues here are usually shorter than in capital hubs, extra time will allow you to go through all procedures calmly. To save time, use online check-in for your flight if your airline provides this option.

When passing through security control, be prepared to present laptops and other large electronic devices separately. Liquids in hand luggage must be in containers up to 100 ml and packed in a transparent bag. Pay special attention to the strict phytosanitary rules of Chile: it is forbidden to bring in fresh fruit, vegetables, seeds, honey, and meat products without special permission. Even if you are flying on a domestic flight, you may be asked to undergo a check. Be sure to declare all such products to avoid heavy fines.

When choosing a seat on a plane departing from or arriving in Copiapó, opt for a window seat. You will be treated to breathtaking views of the Atacama Desert and the foothills of the Andes. These landscapes are the hallmark of the region, and observing them from a bird's eye view is a distinct pleasure.

If you have a connection planned, it will likely be in a larger airport, such as Santiago. Chamonate Airport mainly serves direct flights. Allow sufficient time between connecting flights (at least 2-3 hours), as you may need to go through security control again. In case of a delay to your flight from Copiapó, contact the airline counter for information on the new departure time and your rights as a passenger.

To save a little money, bring an empty reusable water bottle, which can be filled after passing security, as well as light snacks. Prices for food and beverages at airports are typically higher. in the event of a long flight delay, check with the airline representative if they provide meal vouchers. Keep all receipts for unforeseen expenses — they may be needed to claim compensation.