Canal Bajo Airport

Cañal Bajo Carlos Hott Siebert Airport is the aerial gateway to the amazing Lake District of Chile. Located near the city of Osorno, it serves as a starting point for travellers aiming to explore volcanoes, crystal-clear lakes, and the national parks of Patagonia. Despite its modest size, the airport plays a key role in the region's transport system, providing convenient connections to the capital and opening the way to the natural treasures of the country's south.

Features and Advantages

The main advantage of Cañal Bajo Airport is its strategic location. It is situated just a few kilometres southeast of Osorno, making it easily accessible for residents and visitors of the city. The airport primarily serves domestic flights, connecting the Los Lagos region with the capital, Santiago. It is a small but functional terminal where check-in and security processes are generally quick and fuss-free, which is particularly appreciated by tourists who do not wish to waste time in queues.

The airport is an important hub for travellers heading to iconic places such as Puyehue National Park, known for its thermal springs and volcanic landscapes, as well as Lakes Rupanco and Llanquihue. The main airlines operating regular flights are LATAM Airlines, Sky Airline, and JetSmart, offering daily connections. Thanks to this, the journey from the capital to the very heart of Chilean nature takes less than two hours.

For your convenience, we have compiled the main contact information for Cañal Bajo Airport (ZOS). Please note that for questions related to tickets, flight check-in, and luggage, you should contact your airline directly.

• Official website: Currently, the airport does not have a separate official website for passengers. The most up-to-date flight information is best checked on the websites of the airlines flying to Osorno.
• Information desk phone: +56 64 223 3553
• Airport address: Ruta 215, Osorno, Región de Los Lagos, Chile
• Email: An official email for passenger enquiries is not published. It is recommended to use the telephone for communication.
• Social media: The airport does not maintain official pages on social networks.
• Lost luggage information: For all questions regarding lost or damaged luggage, it is necessary to contact the Lost & Found service of your airline directly.
• Passenger support contacts: General questions can be asked via the main airport phone number. To resolve issues with tickets, date changes, or clarification of carriage rules, please contact your airline's representative office.

Cañal Bajo Airport (ZOS) is located just a few kilometres east of the city of Osorno, so getting to it from the centre is quick and without significant difficulties. The choice of transport depends on your budget and comfort preferences.

The simplest and most predictable method is taxi or private transfer. A trip from the city centre will take approximately 15-20 minutes. This is the most convenient option, especially if you are travelling with bulky luggage or at night. The estimated cost of a taxi ride is 7,000–10,000 Chilean pesos (approximately 8–12 USD). A more budget-friendly alternative in Chile are "colectivos" — shared route taxis, which will cost significantly less. However, it is worth noting that they follow specific routes and may make stops along the way.

As for public transport, options are limited. There are generally no direct bus routes entering the airport territory. Some city buses may stop on the highway nearby, from where you would have to walk. This option is the cheapest but least convenient and is not recommended for tourists unfamiliar with the area.

If you plan to actively travel around the region, renting a car is an excellent solution. Several car rental agency representatives operate at Cañal Bajo Airport, where you can pick up a vehicle immediately upon arrival. For those arriving at the airport in their own or rented car, a parking lot is provided in front of the terminal building, offering both short-term and long-term parking options.

Cañal Bajo Airport (ZOS), serving the city of Osorno, is a modern and compact aviation hub. Its structure is as simple and convenient as possible for passengers: the airport operates one passenger terminal, which handles all domestic flights, both arrivals and departures.

The terminal layout is intuitive. The building has a logical design: after entering, passengers find themselves in a general area where airline check-in counters and main services are located. Immediately behind the check-in area is the security checkpoint, leading to a small but comfortable departure lounge with several boarding gates. The arrivals area is located in another part of the building and includes a baggage claim belt and an exit to the city towards the taxi stand and car park. Since there is only one terminal, there is no need to transfer between different buildings.

Thanks to the airport's small size, all pre-flight formalities are completed very quickly. Passing through check-in and security screening rarely takes more than 20-30 minutes even during peak hours. Nevertheless, it is recommended to arrive at the airport approximately 1.5 hours before your flight's departure to check in luggage and go through all procedures without haste.

Navigating Cañal Bajo Airport will not cause any difficulties. Signs are clear and understandable, and all key zones — check-in, security, the waiting lounge, and baggage claim — are within walking distance of each other. It is practically impossible to get lost here, making travel through this airport maximally comfortable and predictable.

Cañal Bajo Carlos Hott Siebert Airport (ZOS) is not just a transport hub, but an important part of the development history of southern Chile. Its history is closely intertwined with the conquest of airspace in the region and the desire to connect picturesque, but once isolated lands with the rest of the country. Located near the city of Osorno, it serves as the main aerial gateway to the famous Lake District.

The airfield's history begins in the mid-20th century, although the first runways in the region appeared even earlier, in the era of the birth of Chilean aviation. The airport received its official name in honour of Carlos Hott Siebert, one of the pioneers and aviation enthusiasts in Osorno, highlighting his significance to the local community. Initially, it was a modest airfield serving small aircraft, but its strategic importance for connecting the region with the capital grew rapidly.

A key stage in the airport's development was the large-scale reconstruction completed in 2016. During these works, the runway was significantly lengthened (to 1,950 metres), a new, more spacious and modern passenger terminal was built, and navigation systems were updated. This modernisation was a real breakthrough: it allowed Cañal Bajo Airport to receive medium-haul jet aircraft, such as the Airbus A320, which multiplied passenger traffic and opened new opportunities for tourism development.

Throughout its history, the airport has played an important role not only in transporting passengers but also in logistics during emergencies. Given its geographical location in a zone of volcanic activity, it has repeatedly become a centre for coordinating air operations during eruptions, for example, of the Puyehue volcano. Today, Cañal Bajo is a modern and effective regional airport that is a vital artery for the economy and tourism of the entire region, reliably linking it with Santiago and the world.

Cañal Bajo Airport (ZOS), serving the city of Osorno, provides passengers with all necessary services for a comfortable wait for their flight. Despite its compact size, the terminal is designed to make your journey as convenient as possible.

A small café operates on the airport grounds, where you can drink coffee and have a snack before departure, as well as purchase light refreshments for the road. Additionally, there is a souvenir shop where you can buy memorable gifts and locally produced goods.

Comfortable waiting halls are equipped for all travellers. Although specialised VIP lounges may be absent, the general areas are comfortable enough for relaxation. Passengers can use free Wi-Fi to stay connected, as well as find outlets for charging electronic devices.

ATMs are installed in the terminal for cash withdrawals. Currency exchange points are generally absent, as the airport mainly serves domestic flights. A medical point is provided for first aid in case of necessity.

For passengers with children, there are mother and child rooms, and for travellers with disabilities, an accessible environment has been created: ramps, specially equipped toilets, and the possibility to request staff assistance for escorting through the airport.

There are no hotels directly on the airport grounds; however, in the city of Osorno itself, located a few kilometres away, a wide selection of accommodation options is presented. There, in business centres and city hotels, business travellers can find conference rooms and everything necessary for work.

When planning a flight through Cañal Bajo Airport, it is important to consider that this is a small regional airport, and the choice of dining establishments here is quite limited. Do not expect a large variety of restaurants or a food court like in major international hubs. Options for a snack are mainly concentrated in one or two small cafés or buffets.

As a rule, the main dining point is located in the public zone (landside), before passing security control, making it convenient for both departing passengers and those meeting them. Here you can find a standard set for a quick snack: coffee, tea, soft drinks, sandwiches, pastries, and light refreshments. Sometimes, traditional Chilean empanadas can be found in the assortment — an excellent option to get acquainted with local cuisine in miniature.

Regarding prices, they are usually moderate, although somewhat higher than in the city. The opening hours of such establishments are closely tied to the flight schedule — they are open during hours before and after departures and arrivals but may be closed during quiet periods. If you are looking for a full lunch or dinner, the best solution would be to eat at one of the restaurants in the city of Osorno before travelling to the airport.

Specialised dietary options, such as vegan, gluten-free, or Halal dishes, are likely not to be found here. Passengers with strict dietary restrictions are recommended to bring food with them. Vegetarians can count on simple options like a cheese sandwich or meat-free pastries, but the choice will be limited.

Planning a trip via Cañal Bajo Airport (ZOS) in Osorno is a simple and straightforward process. To make your journey as comfortable as possible, use our tips to help navigate this small but important regional airport in Chile.

Arrival time and check-in. Cañal Bajo Airport is small and mainly serves domestic flights. Therefore, arriving 1.5–2 hours before departure is usually more than sufficient. To save time, complete online check-in on your airline's website. This will allow you to head straight to baggage drop or, if you are travelling light, to the security checkpoint.

Seat selection. The Los Lagos region, where Osorno is located, is famous for its breathtaking landscapes. When flying from or to Santiago, try to secure a window seat. In clear weather, stunning views of the Andes, lakes, and the famous Osorno volcano may open up to you. Check your flight route to choose the correct side for the best photos.

Hand luggage and customs. Rules for carrying hand luggage are standard: liquids up to 100 ml in transparent packaging, no sharp objects. However, pay special attention to Chile's strict phytosanitary rules. It is categorically forbidden to import into the country (and even transport between some regions) fresh fruits, vegetables, seeds, meat, and dairy products without special permission. You will undergo customs and phytosanitary control (SAG) at the first airport of arrival in Chile, usually in Santiago. Declare all products of plant and animal origin to avoid large fines.

Transfer passengers. Cañal Bajo is not a transit hub. If you have a connecting flight, it will likely be at Santiago International Airport (SCL). Allow sufficient time for the transfer: you will need to collect luggage, check in for the next flight, and go through security screening again.

Savings and unforeseen situations. To save money, book flight tickets in advance, especially during the high season (December–February). In case of a flight delay, keep in mind that Cañal Bajo is a small airport with a limited selection of cafés and shops. We recommend having a book, a charged power bank, or downloaded films with you. Check all current information about flight status with representatives of your airline.