โฐ Minimum Connection Times
Domestic โ Domestic
45
minutes
Domestic โ International
90
minutes
Interline Connections
120
minutes
๐ข Terminal Information
Maquehue Airport (PZS), designated by the ICAO as SCTC, is a historic aviation facility serving the city of Temuco and the Araucanรญa Region of southern Chile, located approximately 3 miles (5 km) southwest of the city center. Following the inauguration of the modern La Araucanรญa International Airport (ZCO) in 2014, PZS transitioned from being the primary commercial gateway to a specialized military and general aviation hub. It currently serves as the headquarters for the Maquehue Air Base of the Chilean Air Force and the main base for the Club Aรฉreo de Temuco.
The terminal infrastructure has been repurposed to support its current military and private aviation mission, featuring functional administrative offices and high-efficiency hangars for the local flight club. While the original passenger terminal building remains, it no longer hosts public commercial amenities such as check-in counters, retail shops, or full-service restaurants. Travelers and private pilots have access to basic waiting lounges and briefing areas within the Aero Club complex, which maintains a professional environment for flight training and institutional operations.
Operationally, the airport features a single 5,577-foot asphalt runway (06/24) capable of supporting a wide variety of private jets and military transport aircraft. Ground transportation to central Temuco is well-supported by local taxi services situated near the air base entrance, providing a quick 10 to 15-minute link to the city's main districts. Travelers are strongly advised to note that all scheduled commercial airline services for the region now utilize the new ZCO facility located in Freire, and they should verify their flight destination code carefully before departure to ensure a professional and streamlined journey.
๐ Connection Tips
Maquehue Airport (PZS) in Temuco, Chile, is officially CLOSED to all scheduled commercial passenger flights. IMPORTANT: Do not attempt to book or plan travel to the PZS code. Ensure you use ZCO as your primary air hub for the Chilean Lake DistrictMaquehue has become a regional/utility airport for Temuco's southern Chile network, with its role shaped by the city's growth, the nearby roads, and the wider Araucanรญa movement pattern. The airport matters because it is the closest aviation option for a major regional city, not because it is a huge terminal. The city-side transfer is the whole point here.
All commercial operations were moved to the new La Araucanรญa Airport (ZCO) in 2014. For travelers needing to reach Temuco or the Araucanรญa region, the only gateway is ZCO, located 25km south of the cityFor travellers, the airport is useful as a short hop into the city and the surrounding lake-and-forest corridor. The ground leg is simple and that keeps the field practical.
The former airfield now primarily serves as a strictly military and police aviation base From ZCO, economic 'AndresTour' shuttles and private taxis provide reliable transfers to central Temuco.The airport is there because the Temuco area needs a close-in field for regional movement, university travel, and Araucanรญa business. It is the practical short-hop airport for the city.
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 Maquehue Airport