Arturo Merino Benitez Airport

The Arturo Merino Benitez International Airport (SCL) is the main aerial gateway not only to Santiago, but to all of Chile. Located against the backdrop of the majestic Andes, this modern and bustling transport hub serves as the starting point for journeys across the amazing landscapes of South America, from the Atacama Desert in the north to the glaciers of Patagonia in the south. The airport, named after the founder of the Chilean Air Force, is a key hub for many airlines and hospitably welcomes travellers from all over the world.

Arturo Merino Benitez Airport is renowned for its efficiency and passenger comfort. It serves as a base for major Chilean carriers such as LATAM Airlines, Sky Airline, and JetSmart, which provide an extensive network of routes both domestically and internationally. Passengers can enjoy free Wi-Fi, numerous Duty Free shops, restaurants serving local and international cuisine, as well as comfortable lounges. Currency exchange points, car rentals, and tourist information centres are available for travellers within the facility.

The airport is constantly being modernized to serve the growing passenger flow, making it one of the most advanced in Latin America. Arriving tourists should be aware of strict phytosanitary controls: to protect Chile's unique ecosystem, the import of fresh fruits, vegetables, and products of animal origin is prohibited. This is an important measure to be aware of in advance to avoid misunderstandings at the border.

• Official Website: www.nuevopudahuel.cl
• Help Desk Phone: +56 2 2690 1796
• Address: Armando Cortinez Ote. 1704, Pudahuel, Región Metropolitana, Chile
• Email for General Inquiries: informaciones@nuevopudahuel.cl
• Social Media:
  • Facebook: /NuevoPudahuel
  • X (Twitter): @NuevoPudahuel
  • Instagram: @aeropuertoscl
• Lost Luggage Information: Issues related to lost or damaged luggage should be addressed directly to your airline. If you have lost personal items within the terminal, please use the form in the "Lost & Found" section on the airport's official website.
• Passenger Support Contacts: For consultations and assistance, you may contact the support service via the phone number or email address listed above.

Reaching the Arturo Merino Benitez International Airport (SCL), the main aviation hub of Santiago and the entire country of Chile, can be done in several ways. The choice depends on your budget, time, and amount of luggage. The airport is located approximately 17 kilometres from the city centre, and travel time can vary significantly depending on traffic conditions.

Public Transport: Buses

This is the most economical option. Two companies, Turbus and Centropuerto, offer regular bus services between the airport and key transport hubs in Santiago. Buses depart every 10–15 minutes from early morning until late evening. They travel to metro stations such as Pajaritos, Los Héroes, Estación Central, and Universidad de Santiago, allowing you to easily continue your journey to any point in the city. The trip to the centre usually takes from 45 to 60 minutes. There is no direct metro or train connection to the airport.

Taxis and Transfers

For greater comfort, especially if you are travelling with heavy luggage or family, taxis or pre-booked transfers are suitable. It is recommended to use official taxis, counters for which are located in the arrivals area. You can pay for the trip at a fixed rate, which helps avoid misunderstandings with the driver. Uber and Cabify services are also popular in the city. A taxi ride to the centre will take approximately 30-45 minutes, but the cost will be significantly higher than the bus.

Car Rental and Parking

If you plan to actively travel around the country, renting a car is an excellent solution. Offices of all leading international and local rental companies are located at SCL airport. It is advisable to book a car online in advance to secure the best prices. For those arriving at the airport in their own car, various parking options are provided: from express zones for quick passenger drop-off to long-term parking in open-air lots or covered garages.

The Santiago Arturo Merino Benitez Airport (SCL) features a simple and logical structure consisting of two passenger terminals. They are clearly divided by flight type, which significantly simplifies navigation for travellers.

Terminal 1 (T1) is the airport's historic building, which, after comprehensive modernization, was dedicated entirely to serving domestic flights. If you are flying to other cities in Chile, for example, to Calama, Punta Arenas, or the mysterious Easter Island, your check-in and boarding will take place here. The terminal is equipped with everything necessary for comfortable waiting.

Terminal 2 (T2) is a modern international complex opened in 2022. It serves absolutely all international flights, both arrivals and departures. It is distinguished by thoughtful architecture with abundant natural light, spacious halls, and advanced service technologies, including numerous self-check-in kiosks and automated baggage drop lines. Departure and arrival zones are smartly separated on different levels to optimize passenger flows.

The terminals are within walking distance of each other. The transfer between T1 and T2 takes no more than 5-10 minutes via a convenient covered walkway, which is particularly important for passengers with connecting flights. Orienting yourself in the airport is easy thanks to a clear signage system in Spanish and English, as well as numerous information screens.

To avoid rushing, consider the following recommendations regarding arrival times when planning your trip:

• For domestic flights (T1), it is recommended to arrive 2 hours before departure.
• For international flights (T2), you should allow at least 3-4 hours, especially during peak times. Passing through passport control and security screening in the new terminal may take significant time due to the large number of passengers.

The history of the main airport of Santiago is a tale of rapid growth and constant modernization, reflecting the development of the entire country. The airport was officially opened on February 9, 1967, and originally bore the name Pudahuel, after the commune in which it is located. Its construction was necessary as the old Los Cerrillos airport could no longer cope with the growing passenger flow and could not accommodate modern jet liners.

An important milestone in history was the renaming of the airport in 1980. It received the name Arturo Merino Benitez—the founder of the Air Force of Chile and the national airline LAN Chile, paying tribute to the man who stood at the origins of Chilean aviation. It bears this name to this day, symbolizing a connection with the country's rich aviation heritage.

The first large-scale reconstruction took place on the eve of the new millennium. In 1994, a new spacious international terminal was opened, which significantly increased capacity and improved the level of comfort for passengers. The old building was refitted to serve domestic flights. The airport continued to develop, and by the 2010s, it became obvious that another expansion was required.

The grandest modernization in the airport's history was completed in 2022. As part of this ambitious project, a completely new international terminal (T2) with an area of over 200,000 square metres was built. The former terminal (T1) was fully repurposed for domestic flights. This expansion not only doubled the airport's capacity, bringing it to 38 million passengers per year, but also turned it into one of the most modern and technologically advanced aviation hubs in Latin America.

Santiago Arturo Merino Benitez Airport (SCL) offers passengers a full range of services for a comfortable wait before their flight. If you are hungry, there are numerous restaurants and cafes at your disposal, offering both Chilean dishes and familiar international fast food. In the spacious departure areas, there are Duty Free shops, souvenir stalls where you can buy memorable gifts, as well as boutiques of famous brands.

For those who value enhanced comfort, VIP lounges and business lounges operate at the airport. Here you can relax in silence, enjoy complimentary snacks and beverages, and work in a calm environment. Free Wi-Fi is available throughout the terminal, and numerous charging stations for electronic devices will help you stay connected. These amenities make waiting for a flight less tiring and more productive.

Financial matters are easily resolved at the airport: there are bank branches, ATMs, and currency exchange points. In case of necessity, passengers can seek qualified assistance at the medical centre, which operates around the clock. All these services are located in easily accessible areas of the terminal, allowing you to quickly find the service you need.

Travellers with children will appreciate the presence of specially equipped nursing rooms and play areas where young passengers can have a fun time before the flight. The airport is also fully adapted for passengers with reduced mobility: ramps, elevators, special restrooms, and an assistance service, which can be booked in advance, are provided.

For business travellers and those needing a place to stay overnight between flights, a hotel is located directly opposite the terminal. Additionally, the airport offers the opportunity to rent conference rooms and use the services of a business centre for holding meetings or working in a quiet setting.

At Arturo Merino Benitez Airport (SCL) in Santiago, you will find a multitude of options for a snack or a full lunch, capable of satisfying any taste and budget. Dining establishments are located both in the public zone (landside) and in the secure zone after passing security control (airside), with the widest selection awaiting passengers specifically in the departure area.

For those who are not in a rush and wish to enjoy a quiet meal, full-service restaurants operate in the international terminal (T2). Here you can try dishes of Chilean and international cuisine, order a steak accompanied by a premium beverage, or taste fresh seafood. This is an excellent opportunity to get acquainted with the gastronomy of Chile before departure. Prices in such establishments are above average, but the level of comfort and quality corresponds.

If time is limited, numerous cafes and fast-food establishments are at your service. The airport features both famous global chains (for example, Starbucks, McDonald's, Dunkin') and local cafes. We highly recommend trying a Chilean classic—empanadas (pastries with meat, cheese, or seafood) or a hearty chacarero sandwich. This is an ideal option for a quick and filling snack. Lounges located in the departure area offer a wide selection of refreshing beverages, including famous local specialities.

Most establishments in the international terminal operate around the clock or until late at night to serve passengers of all flights. The domestic terminal (T1) also has its own cafes and food courts, although the selection there may be somewhat more modest. Regarding special dietary needs, finding vegetarian dishes, such as salads or sandwiches with vegetables, is quite easy. Options for vegans or gluten-free dishes are harder to find, but they appear on the menus of some restaurants. It is recommended to clarify the ingredients of dishes with the staff in advance.

To ensure your journey through the main airport of Santiago goes smoothly, use these useful tips. Arturo Merino Benitez Airport is a large and modern hub, and knowing some nuances will help save time and reduce stress.

Arrival Time: For international flights, it is recommended to arrive at the airport 3-4 hours before departure, and for domestic flights within Chile — at least 2 hours. This will give you a sufficient margin of time to complete check-in, baggage drop, and security control, which can be busy, especially during peak hours.

Check-in and Screening: If possible, check in for your flight online—this will save you time in queues at airline counters. When passing through security, prepare your passport and boarding pass in advance, and remove electronics and liquids from your hand luggage. Please remember that liquids can be carried in containers of no more than 100 ml, packed in a single transparent bag.

Seat Selection: If your route passes over the majestic Andes, a window seat will be a real gift. Try to select it during check-in to enjoy breathtaking views of mountain peaks and valleys from a bird's-eye view.

Transfer Passengers: If you are flying in transit through Santiago, carefully follow the "Conexiones" (Connections) signs. When transferring from an international flight to a domestic one, you will need to pass through passport control and strict customs control, collect your luggage, and re-check it for the next flight.

Customs Control on Arrival: This is one of the most important points. In Chile, there are very strict rules regarding the import of products of plant and animal origin. Be sure to declare any fruits, vegetables, seeds, nuts, honey, or meat. Concealing even a single apple can result in a serious fine. If you are unsure, it is better to list the product in the declaration or discard it in special bins before the control zone.

Saving Time and Money: The most economical way to get to the city is via shuttle buses from Centropuerto or Turbus, which depart directly from the terminal. Prices for food and drinks at the airport are quite high, so bring an empty water bottle with you—after passing security, it can be filled at drinking fountains.

In Case of Flight Delay: First of all, contact a representative of your airline for information and instructions. Clarify what services (meals, accommodation) you are entitled to. The terminal has free Wi-Fi, cafes, and shops that will help pass the waiting time.