Teniente Vidal Airport (GXQ)

Teniente Vidal Airport, identified by the IATA code GXQ and ICAO code SCCY, is a significant regional aviation facility serving the city of Coyhaique, the capital of the Aysén Region in Chilean Patagonia. Located just 3 kilometers southwest of the city center, the airport serves as a vital hub for general aviation, government flight operations, and private charters within the rugged and sparsely populated southern reaches of Chile. Its close proximity to the city makes it an essential link for regional administration and emergency medical services in an area where land travel can be exceptionally difficult due to the local topography. The airport features a functional physical infrastructure centered around a 1,500-meter asphalt runway suitable for a variety of light and regional aircraft. While the facility does not host a conventional commercial passenger terminal with retail amenities, it provides essential support for pilots and private travelers, including a basic waiting area and technical services. Fuel availability, specifically AVGAS and Jet-A, is maintained on-site to support the numerous private and state-operated vessels that utilize the airfield for patrols and regional logistics. Travelers should note that GXQ is not an international Airport of Entry and lacks on-site customs and immigration facilities. Currently, scheduled commercial airline services for the Coyhaique region are handled by the larger Balmaceda Airport (BBA), located approximately 50 kilometers to the south. Teniente Vidal remains the preferred choice for private executive aviation and local flight clubs, offering a highly efficient alternative for those wishing to avoid the longer transit from the regional commercial hub. Ground transportation is well-supported by local taxi services and ride-sharing applications, providing rapid access to Coyhaique's hotels and commercial districts. The airport remains a strategic asset for the Chilean government's efforts to maintain connectivity and public safety throughout the remote Aysén archipelago.