SCL Airport Insights & Guide
- Frequent Flier Tips
- Navigating the Terminals
- Connecting Between Terminals
- Picking Up and Dropping Off Passengers
- Parking Facilities & Options
- Transportation Options
- Airport Hotels
- Dining, Shopping & Enjoying the Airport
- Passenger Services
- Flight Status Info
- Airport Facts & Stats
- Airport History
- Airport Contact Information
- Frequently Asked Questions
Getting to Know SCL Airport
Discover Santiago Airport, Chile's gateway and home to the unique Andes Mountain Range view from its terminals. Our concise guide covers essential amenities, services, and tips for a seamless journey. Whether you're navigating arrivals or departures, find everything from flight details to shopping at SCL in our guide. For further details on SCL and other airports, visit our Comprehensive Airport Guide on iFly.com.
iFly Tip: Discover the benefits of booking airport parking in advance on our Airport Parking page.
Navigating SCL's Terminals
SCL has two main terminals: Terminal 1 and Terminal 2. Terminal 1 is divided into two levels, with the first level being used for arrivals and the second level being used for departures. The terminal has a total of 22 gates, with gates 1-10 being used for domestic flights and gates 11-22 being used for international flights. Terminal 2 also has two levels, with the first level being used for arrivals and the second level being used for departures. This terminal has a total of 18 gates, all of which are used for international flights.
Major airlines that use Terminal 1 include LATAM Airlines, Sky Airlines, and JetSMART. Terminal 2 is used by airlines such as American Airlines, Delta Air Lines, and Air Canada.
When navigating the airport terminals, it is important to pay attention to the flight information displays located throughout the airport. These displays will show the gate number for your flight, as well as any changes to your flight's status or boarding time. There are also information desks located in both terminals where you can ask airport staff for assistance.
Use our interactive airport map to locate food, services, and airline departure gates.
Connecting Between Terminals
At SCL Airport, there are two terminals: Terminal 1 and Terminal 2. These terminals are connected by a free shuttle bus service, which operates 24/7. The shuttle bus runs every 10-15 minutes and the journey takes around 5-10 minutes. You can catch the shuttle bus outside the Arrivals area of each terminal.
If you prefer to walk between the terminals, it is possible but it can take around 15-20 minutes depending on your walking speed. There is a pedestrian walkway that connects the two terminals, which is located outside of Terminal 2. It is important to note that this walkway is not covered, so if it is raining or the weather is bad, it may be better to take the shuttle bus.
Frequent Flier Tips
To help make your experience at Arturo Merino Benitez International Airport (SCL) as smooth and enjoyable as possible, we’ve gathered the best advice and tips from SCL-based frequent travelers, flight attendants, pilots, and airport staff. Their first-hand insights are sure to provide you with valuable guidance. Here’s what they have to say:
Navigating the Terminals
"SCL has two main terminals: the Domestic Terminal and the International Terminal. The Domestic Terminal is straightforward, but the International Terminal can be a bit confusing, especially during peak hours. Make sure to follow the signs closely and check the screens for any gate changes." — Juan P., Santiago, Chile, August 2023
"If you’re connecting between domestic and international flights, give yourself at least 90 minutes. The terminals are connected, but it can take some time to navigate through security and immigration checks." — Maria G., Maipú, Chile, September 2023
Getting To/From the City
"The Centropuerto bus is a reliable and cost-effective way to get to downtown Santiago. It runs every 10 minutes during peak hours and every 30 minutes during off-peak times. It’s much cheaper than a taxi and quite comfortable." — Carlos R., Providencia, Chile, October 2023
"If you’re in a hurry, consider using a ride-sharing service like Uber or Cabify. They are generally cheaper than traditional taxis and you can avoid the long taxi queues." — Daniela S., Las Condes, Chile, November 2023
Parking
"For long-term parking, the E-Parking lot is your best bet. It’s a bit farther from the terminals, but there’s a free shuttle service that runs every 15 minutes. It’s also more affordable than the closer lots." — Felipe M., Pudahuel, Chile, December 2023
"If you’re just picking someone up, use the short-term parking area. It’s conveniently located right next to the terminals and the first 30 minutes are free." — Laura T., Quilicura, Chile, January 2024
Inside the Airport
"For a quick bite, head to the food court in the International Terminal. There are plenty of options, from fast food to sit-down restaurants. My favorite is the empanadas at 'La Picá de Juanito'." — Roberto C., Renca, Chile, February 2024
"If you need to do some last-minute shopping, the duty-free shops in the International Terminal offer a wide range of products, from local wines to electronics. They often have good deals, especially on cosmetics and perfumes." — Sofia L., Ñuñoa, Chile, March 2024
Avoiding Delays and Stress
"Check the airport’s wait times online before you leave for the airport. It can save you a lot of stress, especially during peak travel seasons. The security lines can get quite long." — Ignacio V., La Florida, Chile, April 2024
"If you’re traveling internationally, arrive at least three hours before your flight. The immigration and security checks can take a while, especially during busy periods. Better to be early and relaxed than rushed and stressed." — Camila D., San Bernardo, Chile, May 2024
iFly Tip: Learn about the requirements for obtaining a gate pass on our gate pass guide.
Picking Up and Dropping Off Passengers
At SCL, passengers can be picked up and dropped off at the curbside of the terminal buildings. However, there are restrictions on curbside parking, and vehicles are not allowed to wait or park for more than three minutes. This is to ensure that the traffic flow remains smooth and there is no congestion at the terminal entrances.
If you need to wait for your arriving passengers, the airport provides cell-phone waiting areas where you can park your vehicle for free. These areas are located near the terminal buildings and are equipped with flight information display screens, so you can keep track of your flight's arrival time. Once your passengers have arrived and collected their luggage, they can call you to let you know that they are ready to be picked up, and you can then proceed to the curbside to pick them up.
Parking Facilities & Options
Traveling to SCL Airport and looking for parking options? The airport offers several parking facilities to meet your needs. The parking lots and garages are conveniently located near the airport terminals, making it easy for you to park and catch your flight.
If you're picking up a passenger, the airport has cell phone waiting areas available for your convenience. These areas allow you to wait in your car until your passenger has arrived and is ready to be picked up.
Handicapped parking is also available at the airport, with designated spots located in each parking facility. If you require special assistance, the airport provides shuttle services to and from the parking facilities.
If you're looking for a more economical parking option, off-airport parking is also available. These parking lots are located near the airport and offer shuttle services to and from the terminals. They are a great option for those looking to save money on parking fees.
Get details about the airport parking options and rates, along with more economical off-airport parking here.
Transportation Options
When arriving at Santiago Arturo Benitez Airport, there are several transportation options available to get you to your destination.
If you prefer to rent a car, there are several car rental companies located at the airport, including Avis, Budget, Europcar, and Hertz. You can find their counters in the Arrivals Hall of the airport.
Taxis are also readily available, and the drop-off area is located outside of the Arrivals Hall. The fare for a taxi ride to downtown Santiago is approximately CLP 20,000, and the journey takes around 30 minutes.
If you're looking for a more affordable option, shared ride services like Uber and Cabify are also available. The pickup area for these services is located outside of the Arrivals Hall. However, please note that ride-sharing services are only allowed to pick up passengers in designated areas, so make sure to check the app for pickup instructions.
Another option is the airport shuttle, which provides transportation to various locations in Santiago. The pickup area for the shuttle is located outside of the Arrivals Hall, and fares vary depending on your destination.
Finally, if you prefer to use public transportation, there are several bus lines that operate from the airport. The bus stop is located outside of the Arrivals Hall, and fares are relatively inexpensive. However, please note that buses can be crowded and may not be the most comfortable option.
iFly Tip: Get the best tips for traveling with toddlers on our flying with toddlers guide.
Airport Hotels
Are you looking for a comfortable and convenient hotel near the airport for your next trip? Our guide provides a variety of options to suit every traveler's needs, from luxurious stays to budget-friendly accommodations. We've handpicked hotels that are not only close to the airport but also offer excellent amenities and services to ensure a comfortable and enjoyable stay. From the Hilton Garden Inn and the Courtyard by Marriott to unique accommodation options such as the Container Home and the Departamento Richie, you'll find something that suits your preferences and budget. Most of these hotels also offer complimentary Wi-Fi access and other amenities like swimming pools and on-site restaurants. Their close proximity to downtown and various local attractions make them an ideal base for exploring the city. Click here to view all Santiago Airport Hotels.
Dining, Shopping & Enjoying the Airport
Travelers passing through the airport will find a variety of dining and shopping options to choose from. For those looking for a quick bite, there are several fast food chains available such as McDonald's, Burger King, and Subway located throughout the airport. For a more sit-down experience, travelers can check out La Pausa, a restaurant offering a variety of Chilean and international cuisine, or La Piojera, a bar and restaurant known for its famous Chilean drink, Terremoto.
When it comes to shopping, Santiago Arturo Benitez Airport has a variety of stores available for travelers to browse. Duty-free shops such as Dufry and Aldeasa offer a range of products from cosmetics to electronics, while souvenir shops like Artesanias de Chile and Chile Lindo offer unique gifts and souvenirs to take home. For those looking for a good read, there is a bookstore called Libreria Nacional located in the airport as well.
The locations of all food, shops, and services at Santiago Airport can be found using iFly's interactive map. For a complete list of restaurants, bars, shops, and news stands, check out the food and shopping page.
Passenger Services
Santiago Airport, located in Chile, offers a variety of passenger services to ensure a comfortable and stress-free travel experience.
For those needing to stay connected, free wifi is available throughout the airport. Lost and found services are also available for any items left behind during travel.
Families traveling with children can take advantage of the airport's children's areas, equipped with toys and games to keep young ones entertained. Special-needs services, including wheelchair assistance, are also available upon request.
For any banking needs, there are several ATMs and currency exchange services located throughout the airport. In case of medical emergencies, there is a medical center on site with trained professionals available to assist.
Flight Status Info
As an air traveler, it is important to stay updated about the status of your flight. At SCL, there are several ways to check your flight status. One of the most common ways is by using the in-airport flight displays (FIDS), which are located throughout the airport. These displays provide real-time information about flight departures, delays, and gate information.
In addition to FIDS, passengers can also be alerted about departure delays, cancelations, or gate changes via the use of airline mobile phone apps. Most airlines have their own mobile apps that provide up-to-date information about flight status. Passengers can also opt-in to receive text, email, and push notifications about any changes to their flight status.
It is important to note that flight status information can change quickly, so it is recommended to check frequently for any updates. Passengers should also arrive at the airport early to allow for any unexpected delays or changes.
Passengers can check the status of their flight departure at SCL Airport by visiting the flight departures page on ifly.com, which provides real-time updates on flight departures, delays, and gate information.
Airport Facts & Stats
- Location: Comodoro Arturo Merino Benitez International Airport (SCL) is located 15 km northwest of downtown Santiago, Chile.
- Terminals: The airport features two terminals, Terminal 1 and Terminal 2.
- Airlines Served: Major airlines serving the airport include LATAM Airlines, Sky Airline, and JetSMART. For a complete list of airlines, visit the SCL Airlines Served page.
- Passenger Traffic: The airport handles approximately 200,000 passengers daily.
- Daily Flights: Santiago Arturo Benitez Airport sees over 1,200 daily flights.
- Top Destinations: The most popular destinations served from SCL are Sao Paulo, Buenos Aires, Lima, Miami, and Madrid. Other notable destinations include New York, Los Angeles, and London.
- Hub Status: The airport serves as a hub for LATAM Airlines, Sky Airline, and JetSMART.
Airport History
Santiago Airport, also known as Comodoro Arturo Merino Benitez International Airport, is the largest airport in Chile and serves as the main hub for LATAM Airlines. The airport has a rich history dating back to its opening in 1967.
Significant events in the airport's history include:
- 1967 - SCL opens to the public
- 1980 - The airport undergoes a major expansion, including the addition of a new terminal building
- 1994 - The airport is renamed Comodoro Arturo Merino Benitez International Airport in honor of a Chilean air force officer
- 2001 - The airport opens a new international terminal, increasing its capacity to handle more passengers
- 2014 - The airport undergoes another major expansion, including the addition of a new runway and a new control tower
- 2015 - SCL Airport is named the best airport in South America by Skytrax
Today, the airport continues to be a vital transportation hub for Chile and the surrounding region, serving millions of passengers each year.
Airport Contact Information
For more information about Santiago Arturo Merino Benítez Airport, please refer to the following contact details:
- IATA Code: SCL
- Airport Website
- Phone: +56 2 2690 1759
- Email: [email protected]
- Mailing Address: Arturo Merino Benítez International Airport, Av. Armando Cortinez Norte 2150, Santiago, Chile
Note that the contact information provided here is subject to change by the airport operator(s).
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Santiago Arturo Benitez Airport Q&A
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