Arturo Merino Benítez International Airport, commonly known as Santiago de Chile Airport, is the main international airport in Chile and one of the most important in Latin America. Located in the Pudahuel district, approximately 15 kilometers northwest of downtown Santiago, it is the main entry and exit point for international and domestic flights in the country. The airport is a major hub for flights within South America and serves as a hub for several Latin American airlines. The airport handles approximately 20 million passengers annually and offers a variety of services including restaurants, shops, VIP lounges and car rental services.
The airport has two terminals, the Domestic Terminal and the International Terminal. The Domestic Terminal is located on the west side of the airport and handles all domestic flights, while the International Terminal, located on the east side, handles all international flights. Both terminals are connected by a covered walkway.
Inaugurated in 1967, the airport was named in honor of Arturo Merino Benítez, founder and first commander-in-chief of the Chilean Air Force. Since its inauguration, the airport has undergone several expansions and renovations to accommodate growing passenger and cargo traffic. In the 1990s, the airport was partially privatized, which led to a number of improvements in facilities and services. In recent years, the airport has experienced significant growth in passenger traffic and flight operations, making it one of the most important airports in Latin America.
