Overview of Comodoro Arturo Merino Benítez International Airport
Comodoro Arturo Merino Benítez International Airport, also known as Santiago International Airport, is located in Pudahuel, which is about 15 kilometers (9.3 miles) northwest of downtown Santiago, Chile. It is the largest and busiest airport in Chile and serves as the main hub for several airlines, including LATAM Chile, Sky Airline, and JetSMART.
The airport has two terminals: Terminal 1 and Terminal 2. Terminal 1 is the original terminal and serves mainly international flights, while Terminal 2 is newer and serves primarily domestic flights. There are also plans to build a third terminal to handle the increasing passenger traffic.
Comodoro Arturo Merino Benítez International Airport has a wide range of facilities for passengers, including numerous shops, restaurants, and cafes, as well as duty-free stores, ATMs, and currency exchange services. Free Wi-Fi is available throughout the airport, and there are also several lounges available for passengers with access to them.
In terms of transportation, the airport is easily accessible by car, bus, and metro. There are several car rental companies located at the airport, and taxis and buses are readily available outside of the terminals. The nearest metro station is Pajaritos, which is on Line 1 of the Santiago Metro and is a short bus ride away from the airport.
Overall, Comodoro Arturo Merino Benítez International Airport provides a modern and efficient travel experience for passengers flying in and out of Santiago, Chile.
Terminals at Comodoro Arturo Merino Benítez International Airport
Comodoro Arturo Merino Benítez International Airport, also known as Santiago International Airport, has two terminals: Terminal 1 and Terminal 2.
Terminal 1 is the main terminal and handles most of the airport’s operations, including domestic and international flights. It has three levels: the first level is for arrivals, the second level is for departures, and the third level is for airport lounges.
The departures area of Terminal 1 has a variety of shops, restaurants, and duty-free stores. Passengers can also find currency exchange offices, ATMs, and car rental agencies in this area.
Terminal 2, on the other hand, is used for low-cost airlines and charter flights. It is located next to Terminal 1 and has a capacity of approximately 3 million passengers per year.
Despite its smaller size, Terminal 2 also has various services available, such as a food court, shops, and car rental offices. Passengers traveling through Terminal 2 can easily reach Terminal 1 via a covered walkway.
Both terminals are connected by a transportation center, which includes bus stations, parking lots, and a taxi stand. The airport also offers a free shuttle service between the terminals for passengers in transit.
In addition to the two terminals, Comodoro Arturo Merino Benítez International Airport has a private VIP terminal, which is used by high-profile individuals, government officials, and corporate executives. The VIP terminal offers exclusive services such as private check-in, immigration and customs clearance, and a lounge area with catering, drinks, and other amenities.
Overall, the terminals at Comodoro Arturo Merino Benítez International Airport provide a wide range of services and facilities to meet the needs of all travelers, whether they are flying on a budget airline or using the VIP terminal.
Airlines and Destinations
The following airlines operate from Comodoro Arturo Merino Benítez International Airport:
– Aerolíneas Argentinas (Buenos Aires-Ezeiza)
– Air Canada (Toronto-Pearson, seasonal flights to Vancouver)
– Air France (Paris-Charles de Gaulle)
– American Airlines (Dallas/Fort Worth, Miami)
– Avianca (Bogotá, Lima)
– British Airways (London-Heathrow)
– Delta Air Lines (Atlanta, New York-JFK, seasonal flight to Los Angeles)
– Emirates (São Paulo-Guarulhos, Dubai)
– Iberia (Madrid)
– JetSMART (domestic routes to various destinations in Chile)
– KLM (Amsterdam)
– LATAM Chile (domestic and international routes to various destinations in South America, North America, Europe, and Oceania)
– Sky Airline (domestic routes to various destinations in Chile, international flights to Peru and Argentina)
– United Airlines (Houston-Intercontinental, Newark)
Seasonal changes may occur depending on demand and other factors. Please check with individual airlines for up-to-date information on routes and schedules.
Transportation Options at Comodoro Arturo Merino Benítez International Airport
Comodoro Arturo Merino Benítez International Airport, also known as Santiago International Airport, is the largest and busiest airport in Chile. It serves as the main hub for several airlines, including LATAM Airlines, Sky Airline, and JetSmart.
There are several transportation options available at the airport for travelers to choose from. One of the most popular options is taking a shuttle or taxi to their hotel or destination. There are several private shuttle companies that offer door-to-door service, such as TransVIP and Delfos. Taxis are also widely available outside the airport terminal.
For those who prefer to drive themselves, there are several car rental companies located within the airport. Some of the companies include Avis, Budget, Enterprise, Hertz, and Sixt. It is recommended to make a reservation in advance to ensure availability and to compare prices between different rental companies.
If public transportation is preferred, there is a shuttle bus service called “Centropuerto” that connects the airport with several metro stations in Santiago. This is an affordable option for those who want to avoid traffic and travel by public transportation. The shuttle runs every 10-15 minutes and tickets can be purchased inside the airport terminal or at the shuttle stops.
Another public transportation option is the metro system. The metro station is located just a few blocks from the airport terminal and provides easy access to several destinations within Santiago. The metro operates from 6:00 am to 11:30 pm on weekdays and from 6:30 am to 11:30 pm on weekends.
Lastly, there are train lines that connect the airport to nearby cities such as Valparaiso and Rancagua. These trains operate daily and offer convenient and fast transportation options for travelers who are looking to explore other parts of Chile.
In summary, Comodoro Arturo Merino Benítez International Airport offers several transportation options for travelers to choose from including private shuttles, taxis, car rentals, shuttle buses, metro lines, and train services. It is important to research and compare prices in advance to find the option that is most suitable for your travel needs.
Parking Options at Comodoro Arturo Merino Benítez International Airport
Comodoro Arturo Merino Benítez International Airport offers several parking options for passengers and visitors. There are two parking lots located directly in front of the terminal building, P1 and P2. P1 is a covered parking lot with direct access to the terminal, while P2 is an open-air parking lot. Both parking lots offer short-term and long-term parking options.
For short-term parking, the rates in P1 are CLP 1,200 for the first hour and CLP 600 for each additional hour, up to a daily maximum of CLP 12,000. In P2, the rate is CLP 700 per hour with a daily maximum of CLP 7,000. For long-term parking, P1 offers a weekly rate of CLP 54,000, while P2 offers a weekly rate of CLP 35,000.
There is also a parking lot located just a few minutes’ walk from the terminal building, called P3. This lot is ideal for those who need to park for a longer period of time. The rate for P3 is CLP 14,000 per day or CLP 76,000 per week.
In addition to these options, there is also a valet parking service available for passengers. The rate for this service is CLP 25,000 per day.
Overall, Comodoro Arturo Merino Benítez International Airport offers a range of convenient and affordable parking options for passengers and visitors.
Check-In Procedures
Comodoro Arturo Merino Benítez International Airport offers several options for check-in, including online, self-service, and traditional methods.
Passengers can check in online using the airline’s website or mobile app, up to 24 hours before their flight. This method allows travelers to choose their seats and print their boarding pass from the comfort of their own home or office.
For those who prefer self-service, the airport provides kiosks throughout the terminal where passengers can check in, select their seats, and print their boarding pass. This method is especially convenient for those who have already checked in online but need to print their boarding pass or check a bag.
Finally, traditional check-in counters are available for those who prefer to be assisted by an airport agent. These counters are staffed by representatives from the airlines and are located throughout the terminal.
Regardless of the method chosen, all passengers must present their boarding pass and identification at the security checkpoint before proceeding to the gate.
Overall, Comodoro Arturo Merino Benítez International Airport offers a variety of check-in options to cater to the needs and preferences of its diverse passenger base.
Security Procedures and Tips
At Comodoro Arturo Merino Benítez International Airport, security procedures are taken very seriously. All passengers are required to go through a security check before boarding their flight.
To make the process smoother for yourself and your fellow travelers, be sure to remove any metal objects from your pockets and wear shoes that are easy to take off and put back on. Additionally, pack liquids in a clear, plastic bag and have it ready to be scanned separately.
It is also important to note that certain items, such as sharp objects and firearms, are prohibited from being brought onto the airplane. Be sure to double-check your luggage to avoid any issues during the security check.
By being prepared and following these tips, you can help ensure a safe and efficient experience at the airport.
Customs and Immigration Process
Upon arrival at Comodoro Arturo Merino Benítez International Airport, passengers are required to present their passport and any necessary visas for entry into Chile. They will also need to complete a customs declaration form, indicating any goods they are bringing into the country.
Once cleared by immigration, passengers may proceed to collect their luggage and exit the airport. For departing passengers, they will need to check-in and clear security before proceeding to immigration. They will need to present their passport and any necessary visas for exit from Chile.
After clearing immigration, passengers may proceed to the duty-free shopping area before boarding their flight. It is important to note that there are restrictions on the amount of duty-free items that can be brought back into Chile.
Amenities
- Restaurants and cafes offering a variety of food and beverages.
- Duty-free shops selling products such as perfume, electronics, and souvenirs.
Accessibility Services
Comodoro Arturo Merino Benítez International Airport offers a variety of facilities and services for passengers with disabilities or mobility issues.
These include accessible parking spaces, wheelchair assistance, accessible restrooms, and specially trained staff to help with boarding and deplaning.
Passengers can request these services at the time of booking or upon arrival at the airport.
In addition, the airport provides accessible elevators, ramps, and walkways throughout the terminal to make navigation easier for all passengers.
Connecting Flights: Navigating Comodoro Arturo Merino Benítez International Airport
When catching a connecting flight at this airport, it is important to allow yourself plenty of time between flights, as the airport can be quite large and crowded.
Upon arrival, make sure to follow the signs directing you towards the correct gate for your next flight. If you are unsure, do not hesitate to ask an airport staff member for assistance.
Be mindful of any security or customs procedures that may need to be completed before boarding your next flight. It is also recommended to keep important travel documents easily accessible, such as your passport and boarding passes.
Lastly, if you have any concerns or questions about your connecting flight, seek out the airline’s customer service desk for further assistance.
Baggage Claim and Lost Property
After your flight, head to the baggage claim area located on the lower level of the terminal. Follow the signs to locate your airline’s baggage carousel, which will display the flight numbers of the bags it currently contains.
If you are unable to locate your baggage, proceed to your airline’s baggage office located near the baggage claim area. There, you will be asked to fill out a report detailing your missing baggage. Keep your baggage claim tag with you as it will be useful in helping to track down your missing luggage.
In the event that your baggage was damaged during the flight, report it to your airline’s baggage office immediately and they will assist you in filing a claim for compensation. If you happen to find someone else’s lost property, bring it to the airport’s lost and found department located in Terminal 1.
Emergency and Medical Facilities
Comodoro Arturo Merino Benítez International Airport has a well-equipped medical center located on the ground floor of the airport terminal. The medical center is staffed by qualified medical professionals who offer a range of services, including first aid and emergency medical treatment.
In the event of an emergency, passengers should notify airport authorities or airline staff immediately. The medical center is equipped to respond to a wide range of medical emergencies, including cardiac arrest, respiratory distress, and trauma cases.
The airport also has a dedicated team of firefighters and rescue personnel who are available 24/7 to respond to any emergency situation. Additionally, there are defibrillators located throughout the airport for public use in case of cardiac arrest.
Passengers requiring special medical assistance or traveling with medical equipment should notify their airline prior to their departure. The airport also provides wheelchair assistance for passengers with mobility issues.
Hotel Accommodations Near Comodoro Arturo Merino Benítez International Airport
There are several hotel accommodations available within a short distance of the airport, including Holiday Inn Santiago Airport, Hilton Garden Inn Santiago Airport, and Hotel Diego de Almagro Aeropuerto Santiago.
All hotels offer free airport shuttle services to guests.
Other nearby hotels include Hotel Manquehue Aeropuerto, Hotel City Express Santiago Aeropuerto, and Hotel Qamaqi Aeropuerto Santiago.
These hotels are located within 5 miles of the airport and also offer free airport shuttle services.
Useful Tips:
As the main airport in Chile, Comodoro Arturo Merino Benítez International Airport can be quite busy. However, there are some insider tips to help you navigate and enjoy your time at the airport.
Firstly, make sure to download the airport’s app for up-to-date information on flight statuses and gate changes. Additionally, consider using the airport’s express service to expedite security and immigration processes.
To pass the time, browse the airport’s duty-free shops or relax in one of the airport lounges. And finally, if you have a longer layover, consider taking a quick trip into the city to explore some of Santiago’s top attractions.
Contact Information
– Airport Information Desk: +56 2 2690 1754
– Lost and Found: +56 2 2690 1786
– Medical Services: +56 2 2690 1786
– Immigration Office: +56 2 2690 1562
– Customs Office: +56 2 2690 1553
– Airport Police: +56 2 2690 1819
– VIP Lounge: +56 2 2690 1441
– Duty Free: +56 2 2690 1292
– Airport Parking: +56 2 2690 1073
– Baggage Storage: +56 2 2690 1938
Airports Near Comodoro Arturo Merino Benítez International Airport
If you’re traveling to or from Santiago, Chile, there are several other airports in the vicinity that may be worth considering. Here are the closest airports and their distances from Comodoro Arturo Merino Benítez International Airport:
- Tobalaba – 18 km (11 mi) away. This airport is primarily used for private and charter flights.
- Rancagua Airport – 87 km (54 mi) away. This airport serves the city of Rancagua and is a popular alternative for those flying to Santiago.
- Valparaíso Airport – 109 km (68 mi) away. This airport serves the coastal city of Valparaíso and is a good option if you’re heading to the beach or the nearby wine region.
Transportation options to these airports vary, but usually include taxi, public transportation, or rental car. It’s always a good idea to check with the airport or your airline for specific details on how to reach your destination.