โฐ Minimum Connection Times
Domestic โ Domestic
60
minutes
Domestic โ International
90
minutes
International โ Domestic
90
minutes
International โ International
120
minutes
Interline Connections
120
minutes
๐ข Terminal Information
El Tepual International Airport (PMC) is the primary aviation gateway to the Los Lagos region and serves as the northern entrance to Chilean Patagonia, located approximately 10 miles (16 km) northwest of Puerto Montt. The airport operates from a single, modern two-level passenger terminal that was recently expanded to handle both domestic and international traffic with high efficiency. It acts as a critical infrastructure hub, connecting southern Chile to the national capital of Santiago and various regional destinations via carriers such as LATAM, SKY Airline, and JetSMART.
The terminal infrastructure provides a variety of contemporary amenities across its levels, including the 'Gatsby' full-service restaurant on the first floor and several airside cafรฉs offering local refreshments. Travelers have access to the 'Salones VIP Pacific Club,' which provides a quiet environment with snacks and dedicated Wi-Fi, alongside retail outlets selling traditional handicrafts and regional souvenirs. The facility is fully accessible, featuring podotactile paths and modernized restroom areas, ensuring a comfortable environment for all passengers transitioning to the Lake District's natural attractions.
Ground transportation at PMC is well-supported by official airport taxi stands and shared 'Transfer' vans located directly outside the arrivals exit, providing a quick 20 to 25-minute link to central Puerto Montt. Several major car rental agencies maintain desks within the arrivals hall on the ground floor, which is the preferred choice for those exploring the nearby Osorno volcano and the scenic Petrohuรฉ Waterfalls. A notable feature for arriving passengers is the spectacular view of the surrounding Andes and volcanic peaks, particularly recommended from the left side of the aircraft during northern approaches.
๐ Connection Tips
El Tepual Airport (PMC) is the primary gateway to the Chilean Lake District and northern Patagonia. Ground transport is well-supported; 'AndresTour' and 'Transportes Imperio' buses provide direct synchronized shuttle links between the terminal and the Puerto Montt central bus station (approx. 30 mins, 3,500 CLP). Taxis are also available 24/7 outside arrivals and reach the city center in 20 minutes for a fixed fare of approx.
15,000 CLP. Major car rental agencies have desks in the terminal, which is the highly recommended way to explore the scenic Carretera Austral. A unique connection tip: for those heading to Chiloรฉ Island, take a taxi to the Pargua ferry terminal (approx The bus and road links into Castro or the ferry terminal matter more than the terminal itself, because Chilo travel is a chain of small transfers.
1 hr away). The terminal is modern and spacious. Arrive 2 hours early for all departures. Facilities include several cafes serving local seafood specialty dishes It is a useful little airport when the whole day is already centered on Chilo and the southbound ferry network. That means the airport is most useful when the road or ferry connection is already tied to your island itinerary. there
โฐ Minimum Connection Times
Domestic โ Domestic
30
minutes
Domestic โ International
45
minutes
Interline Connections
75
minutes
๐ข Terminal Information
Chile Chico Airport (CCH), also identified by its ICAO code SCCC, is a small public airport serving the remote town of Chile Chico in the Aysรฉn Region of Chile. Situated on the southern shore of the massive General Carrera Lake, near the Argentine border, the airport is a vital lifeline for this isolated Patagonian community. It provides essential air access for residents, tourists, and cargo, connecting a region characterized by dramatic mountains, glaciers, and unique ecosystems to the rest of Chile.
The terminal facilities at Chile Chico Airport are basic, reflecting its role as a small regional airfield. The modest terminal building typically includes a waiting area for passengers and essential administrative offices. However, amenities such as extensive retail shops, restaurants, or lounges are not available. Travelers are advised to come prepared with their own refreshments and any specific needs, especially given the often-harsh Patagonian weather conditions. The airport's simple setup is designed for efficient processing of light aircraft and regional flights.
Operational infrastructure at CCH includes a single asphalt runway, approximately 1,200 meters long, suitable for light aircraft and small turboprops. The airport operates during daylight hours, as it lacks runway lighting, and it does not serve as an Airport of Entry, meaning customs services are not available. Fuel services are also not provided on-site. Ground transportation to Chile Chico town center is typically arranged locally, often through taxis or transfers provided by local accommodations, emphasizing the need for advance planning when traveling to this remote and beautiful region.
๐ Connection Tips
Chile Chico Airport (CCH) is a vital Patagonian link, serving as the gateway to the southern shore of General Carrera Lake. Because it is a small, regional facility, "connecting" here requires choosing between a direct flight and a scenic multi-modal journey. The primary air connection is via Balmaceda Airport (BBA), the main hub for the Aysรฉn Region. Aerovรญas DAP operates short 20-minute flights between BBA and CCH using small aircraft. If you choose this route, it is essential to book your seat well in advance, as capacity is extremely limited.
Additionally, Patagonian winds are notoriously fierce, and flights are frequently subject to last-minute cancellations. Always maintain a flexible 24-hour window for your onward travel from Balmaceda to major hubs like Santiago (SCL). If the direct flight is unavailable or grounded by weather, the most common alternative is the "Ferry and Road" connection. This involves taking a 90-minute shared shuttle (Transfer) from Balmaceda Airport to Puerto Ingeniero Ibรกรฑez, followed by a 2.
5-hour crossing of General Carrera Lake on the *La Tehuelche* ferry. If you are traveling with a vehicle, you must book your ferry spot online through the Somarco website at least 48 hours in advance. For those seeking an adventurous alternative, you can drive the southern route around the lake via Puerto Rรญo Tranquilo (Carretera Austral), a 6 to 8-hour journey that provides access to the famous Marble Caves. Upon arrival at the basic CCH terminal, note that there are no regular public buses; all ground transport to the town center must be pre-arranged with local taxis or your guesthouse.
โ Back to El Tepual Airport