Arturo Merino Benítez International Airport (SCL)

Connecting through Santiago’s Arturo Merino Benítez International Airport (SCL) requires an understanding of its two separate terminal buildings, which are located about 300 meters apart. For international arrivals connecting to a domestic destination—such as flying from Madrid and connecting to San Pedro de Atacama or Patagonia—the process is mandatory: you must clear immigration, collect all checked baggage, and pass through a strict agricultural (SAG) inspection before walking to T1 to re-check your bags. For ground transportation to the Santiago city center, the 'Centropuerto' (blue) and 'TurBus' (green) shuttle buses provide frequent 24/7 service to the Los Héroes and Pajaritos metro stations for approximately 2,000 CLP. Arriving at the airport three hours before international departures is standard, as the security and immigration checkpoints in the new T2 can be busy during peak evening banks.

Terminal 1 (T1) is dedicated to domestic flights within Chile, while the newer, expansive Terminal 2 (T2) handles all international traffic. A minimum connection time of at least three hours is strongly recommended for these transfers to account for potential processing delays. For connection planning, passport control, bags, and any customs step need slack, so the useful rhythm is the first solid recovery option rather than the terminal itself. The meaningful alternates are Lima, Pichoy Airport, La Araucanía Airport, which is why the backup plan matters more than the terminal amenities. Scheduled service is carried by LATAM, SKY Airline, JetSMART, so the first bank of the day is the one to watch. In practice, that means the airport works as Santiago's time-saving link to the rest of Chile.

A critical tip for travelers entering Chile: the nation is extremely strict regarding the import of organic materials. Official pre-paid taxis are available at the 'Vía Controlada' desks inside the arrivals hall; always avoid unofficial drivers in the lobby. Operationally, passport control, bags, and any customs step need slack, so the useful rhythm is the first solid recovery option rather than the terminal itself. The meaningful alternates are Lima, Pichoy Airport, La Araucanía Airport, which is why the backup plan matters more than the terminal amenities. Scheduled service is carried by LATAM, SKY Airline, JetSMART, so the first bank of the day is the one to watch. In practice, that means the airport works as Santiago's time-saving link to the rest of Chile.

The terminals are connected by a covered walkway, which takes approximately 10 to 15 minutes to walk, or you can utilize the free shuttle bus. You must complete the digital SAG affidavit before landing and declare all food, seeds, or wood products to avoid immediate and heavy fines. Helpful amenities in the terminal include free Wi-Fi, several premium lounges like the LATAM Lounge in T2, and a variety of dining options.

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