Santiago's Domestic Terminal Doubles Capacity to 20 Million Passengers Annually
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Santiago’s Arturo Merino Benítez Airport (SCL) inaugurated the final stage of the remodeling and expansion works of its National Terminal (T1). The project, which required a $60 million investment, doubles the original building's operational capacity to serve 20 million passengers annually.
The modernization responds to a 56% increase in domestic passenger flow recorded since 2015, the year the concessionaire Nuevo Pudahuel took over the airport's management. According to a statement from Nuevo Pudahuel, this completion fulfills the commitment to have the fully renovated space ready before the high traffic expected for the national Fiestas Patrias holidays.
The infrastructure improvements are extensive. The number of boarding gates increased from 22 to 38, with 25 being jet bridges and 13 being remote stands. The number of baggage claim carousels was also doubled, reaching a total of 12 for peak hours. Additionally, the terminal now features 104 check-in counters and 50 self-service check-in kiosks.
To streamline passenger flow, a second boarding area was opened in the eastern sector, equipped with six new security screening machines providing direct access to Gates B. This reduces walking distances for travelers. Furthermore, a direct connection to Gates D was implemented, which can now operate flexibly for both domestic and international flights, granting greater operational versatility to airlines.
Jessica López, Chile's Minister of Public Works, highlighted that this inauguration concludes the airport's renovation process, which included the delivery of the new international terminal in 2022. "Many people will benefit, especially those who travel for work every day to Chile's regions, and they all deserve a better service," she stated.
Meanwhile, Nicolas Claude, General Manager of Nuevo Pudahuel, said that the delivery of this new terminal "projects us into the future as a solid connectivity platform within the country."
The commercial offerings were also completely renewed, with 49 establishments, including 23 retail stores and 26 food and beverage options. Additionally, the terminal's five VIP lounges will be refurbished through a new bidding process to elevate their service standards.
For the upcoming Fiestas Patrias, between September 17 and 21, the airport projects a total of 353,407 passengers. The main domestic destinations will be Calama, Antofagasta, and Puerto Montt.
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