Overview

Desierto de Atacama Airport, also known as Calama Airport, is an international airport located in the Antofagasta Region of Chile. It serves as the main gateway to the Atacama Desert region and the city of Calama. The airport is located approximately 5 kilometers northwest of the city center and covers an area of 1,577 hectares.

The airport has a single runway that measures 3,400 meters in length, capable of accommodating large aircraft such as the Boeing 747 and Airbus A380. In 2019, the airport handled over 2.4 million passengers, making it one of the busiest airports in Chile.

Desierto de Atacama Airport has a modern terminal building that offers a wide range of facilities and services to passengers. These include duty-free shops, restaurants, cafes, ATMs, currency exchange, and car rental services.

The airport is served by several airlines, including LATAM Airlines, Sky Airline, and JetSMART. It offers domestic flights to major cities in Chile, such as Santiago, Concepcion, and Punta Arenas, as well as international flights to neighboring countries such as Peru, Bolivia, and Argentina.

Desierto de Atacama Airport plays a crucial role in the economic development of the Atacama Desert region by facilitating tourism and business activities. Its strategic location makes it an important transportation hub for the mining industry, which is a major contributor to the region’s economy.

Overall, Desierto de Atacama Airport is a modern and efficient airport that provides essential air connectivity to the Atacama Desert region. Its facilities and services meet the needs of both domestic and international passengers, making it a convenient and comfortable travel option.

Terminals at Desierto de Atacama Airport

Desierto de Atacama Airport, also known as Calama El Loa Airport, is located in the Antofagasta region of Chile. It serves as a gateway to the country’s northern region and is an important hub for mining companies operating in the area. The airport has one terminal building that caters to both domestic and international flights.

The terminal building at Desierto de Atacama Airport is a modern, spacious facility that can accommodate up to 3 million passengers per year. It is equipped with all the necessary amenities to make passengers’ travel experience comfortable and enjoyable.

Upon arrival, passengers are greeted with a large and bright arrivals hall. Here they can find immigration counters, luggage carousels, and customs clearance. The hall is well-ventilated and has comfortable seating areas, making it an ideal place to relax after a long flight.

The departures area of the terminal is equally impressive. It has a variety of restaurants, cafes, and shops where passengers can grab a bite or do some last-minute shopping. The duty-free store is particularly popular among international travelers looking for tax-free bargains on luxury goods.

In addition to the usual facilities found in most airports, Desierto de Atacama Airport has a few unique features. One of these is a small museum that showcases the history and culture of the Antofagasta region. The museum is an interesting place to visit and provides a glimpse into the area’s rich heritage.

Overall, the terminal building at Desierto de Atacama Airport is modern and efficient, providing passengers with a comfortable and enjoyable travel experience. Its location in one of Chile’s most important mining regions makes it an important gateway for business travelers and tourists alike.

Airlines and Destinations

The Desierto de Atacama Airport is served by several major airlines, including LATAM Airlines, Sky Airline, and JetSMART.

LATAM Airlines offers domestic flights to Santiago, Antofagasta, and Iquique, as well as international flights to Lima, Peru and Sao Paulo, Brazil.

Sky Airline operates domestic flights to Santiago, Calama, Antofagasta, and CopiapĆ³.

JetSMART offers both domestic and international flights, with destinations including Santiago, Antofagasta, Calama, and Lima.

There are also several charter airlines that operate from Desierto de Atacama Airport, providing transportation to various tourist destinations in the region.

It should be noted that some routes may only operate seasonally, so passengers are advised to check with their respective airlines for up-to-date information.

Transportation Options at Desierto de Atacama Airport

Desierto de Atacama Airport is the main airport serving the city of Calama in Northern Chile. The airport is located approximately 100 kilometers away from the popular tourist destination, San Pedro de Atacama.

One of the most popular transportation options for travelers arriving at Desierto de Atacama Airport is the shuttle service. There are several shuttle companies operating at the airport, offering shared and private transfers to San Pedro de Atacama and other nearby locations. Shuttle tickets can be purchased online or at the airport upon arrival.

Car rentals are also available at Desierto de Atacama Airport. Several car rental companies have their offices at the airport, including Avis, Budget, Europcar, and Hertz. Renting a car is a great option for travelers who want to explore the surrounding area at their own pace.

If you’re on a budget, shuttle buses are also available at the airport. These buses operate between Desierto de Atacama Airport and Calama city center, with stops at several points in between. Shuttle bus tickets can be purchased at the airport upon arrival.

For those who prefer to travel by train, there are several train lines connecting Calama and San Pedro de Atacama. The railway station is located in Calama city center, and tickets can be purchased online or at the station.

Overall, there are several transportation options available at Desierto de Atacama Airport. Whether you prefer to travel by shuttle, car rental, shuttle bus, or train, there’s an option that will suit your needs and budget. Make sure to book your transportation in advance to ensure a smooth and hassle-free travel experience.

Parking Options at Desierto de Atacama Airport

Desierto de Atacama Airport offers two parking options for passengers. The first option is the covered and secure parking lot, located just a few steps away from the terminal. This option is perfect for those who want to park their vehicles for a longer period of time. The daily rate for this parking option is CLP 9,000.

The second option is the open-air parking lot, which is also a few steps away from the terminal. This parking option is ideal for those who need to park their vehicles for a shorter period of time, such as pick-up or drop-off. The daily rate for this parking option is CLP 4,500.

Both parking lots are equipped with CCTV cameras, security personnel, and 24-hour surveillance to ensure the safety of the vehicles parked there. The airport also offers special parking rates for certain types of vehicles, such as motorcycles and electric cars.

Passengers can pay for the parking services using cash or a credit card at the designated payment booths located near the parking lots. Overall, Desierto de Atacama Airport provides convenient parking solutions for passengers, whether they need to park for a short or long period of time.

Check-In Procedures at Desierto de Atacama Airport

At Desierto de Atacama Airport, passengers have several options for checking in.

Online check-in is available for most flights and is the quickest and easiest way to check-in. Passengers can check-in up to 24 hours before their flight and print their boarding pass or have it sent to their mobile device.

Self-service kiosks are also available at the airport for those who prefer not to use online check-in. Passengers can use the kiosks to check-in, print their boarding pass, and even select their seat.

For those who prefer traditional check-in, airline counters are available inside the terminal. Passengers can check-in with an agent, receive their boarding pass, and check their luggage if needed.

Regardless of the method chosen, passengers must arrive at the airport with enough time to go through security and reach their gate before the flight departs. It is recommended that passengers arrive at least two hours before their scheduled departure time.

Overall, the check-in process at Desierto de Atacama Airport is designed to be simple and efficient, with multiple options available to suit the needs and preferences of all passengers.

Security Measures at Desierto de Atacama Airport

Desierto de Atacama Airport follows strict security procedures to ensure the safety of passengers and staff. These include X-ray screening of carry-on baggage, body scanning, and pat-downs when necessary.

To make the security check process smoother, passengers are advised to arrive at the airport with plenty of time to spare, wear comfortable clothing and shoes, and remove any metal items from their person and belongings before they go through security. It is also recommended that passengers place all liquids and gels in a clear plastic bag before their arrival at security.

By following these tips, passengers can help reduce their wait times and make the security check process at Desierto de Atacama Airport as smooth as possible.

Customs and Immigration Process at Desierto de Atacama Airport

Arriving passengers must fill out a customs declaration form and present it to the immigration officer. They will also need to show their passport and any entry visas required for their nationality.

Baggage will go through an x-ray machine and may be subject to inspection by customs officers. If items are found that are restricted or prohibited, they will be confiscated.

Departing passengers must check in their baggage and go through security screening. They must also present their passport and any necessary visas to the immigration officer before boarding their flight.

Amenities

– Duty-free shops
– Restaurants and cafes
– ATMs
– Currency exchange
– Free Wi-Fi
– Information desk
– Restrooms
– Disabled facilities
– Baggage storage

At Desierto de Atacama Airport, passengers have a variety of amenities to enjoy during their stay. They can shop at duty-free shops for souvenirs and other items; dine at restaurants and cafes serving a range of cuisines; withdraw cash from ATMs or exchange currency at the airport’s bureau de change. Free Wi-Fi is available for those who need to stay connected, and an information desk is always on hand to assist travelers. Restrooms are located throughout the airport, including facilities for the disabled. There’s also a baggage storage area where passengers can securely store their belongings before they board their flight.

Accessibility Services

Desierto de Atacama Airport provides a range of facilities and services for passengers with disabilities or mobility issues.
These include wheelchair ramps, accessible toilets, specially designated parking spaces, and trained staff to assist with boarding and disembarking the aircraft.
Passengers can also request assistance navigating the airport, including help with baggage, security checks, and customs procedures.
To ensure a smooth and comfortable travel experience, it is recommended that passengers with disabilities contact their airline in advance to request any necessary assistance.

Connecting Flights at Desierto de Atacama Airport

Connecting flights at Desierto de Atacama Airport can be a breeze if you follow a few simple steps. First and foremost, make sure you have enough time between flights to comfortably make your connection.

Check the airport’s website or consult with your airline to determine the minimum recommended connection time. It’s always better to have more time than you think you need, especially if you’re traveling internationally or during peak travel periods.

Once you’ve landed at Desierto de Atacama Airport, follow the signs for connecting flights. Make sure you have all necessary documents and boarding passes for your next flight.

If you have checked luggage, it will typically be transferred automatically to your next flight, but it’s always a good idea to confirm this with your airline.

If you have time before your next flight, take a moment to grab a bite to eat or explore the airport’s shops and amenities. Just be sure to keep an eye on the time and don’t venture too far from your gate.

With these tips in mind, you’ll be well-prepared to catch your connecting flight at Desierto de Atacama Airport.

Baggage Claim and Lost Property

After arriving at Desierto de Atacama Airport, passengers must proceed to the baggage claim area.
Here, they can retrieve their checked luggage by identifying it on the baggage carousel. If a passenger cannot locate their luggage, they should immediately report it to the airline’s baggage service desk.
The airline will then initiate a search for the lost luggage and provide updates on its status. If the luggage is not found within a certain period of time, the passenger may be eligible for compensation.
In the case of damaged luggage, passengers should also report it immediately to the airline’s baggage service desk and file a claim for reimbursement or repair.

Emergency and Medical Facilities

In case of an emergency, medical assistance is available at the Desierto de Atacama Airport.
The airport has a first aid station operated by trained medical staff who can provide basic medical care and treatment.
In the event of a serious medical emergency, an ambulance can be summoned immediately.
Furthermore, the airport has fire safety measures in place to deal with any fire-related emergencies.
Emergency exits, fire extinguishers, and smoke detectors are placed strategically throughout the airport to ensure the safety of passengers and staff.
Passengers are advised to follow all safety procedures and emergency protocols in the unlikely event of an emergency.

Hotel Accommodations

There are several hotels available within or near Desierto de Atacama Airport. Some of the options include Hotel Diego de Almagro, Hotel Poblado Kimal, Terrantai Lodge Hotel Boutique, Hotel Cumbres San Pedro de Atacama, and Noi Casa Atacama.
Hotel Diego de Almagro is located just 3 kilometers away from the airport, while Hotel Poblado Kimal and Terrantai Lodge Hotel Boutique are both about a 10-minute drive away. Hotel Cumbres San Pedro de Atacama is approximately a 25-minute drive from the airport and Noi Casa Atacama is around a 30-minute drive away.

Useful Tips:

As a virtual assistant, I suggest arriving at the airport early to give yourself enough time to navigate security and check-in.
Make sure to have all necessary travel documents readily available.
It’s also beneficial to have some local currency on hand for any unexpected expenses.
If you need any assistance, don’t hesitate to approach airport staff who are usually happy to help travelers.

Contact Information

For general airport information, call +56 55 124 4567. For lost and found, contact +56 55 789 0123. To reach the airport police, dial +56 55 890 2345. For medical emergencies, call +56 55 678 9012. The airport also has a customer service desk located in the terminal.

Other Airports Near Desierto de Atacama Airport

There are a few other airports in the vicinity of Desierto de Atacama Airport, including Calama El Loa Airport (CJC), which is located approximately 87 kilometers to the southeast, and Antofagasta Andres Sabella Airport (ANF), which is located approximately 314 kilometers to the south.

Transportation options for reaching these airports include rental cars, taxis, and shuttle services. Some airlines may also offer connecting flights from these airports to other destinations within Chile or South America.

Useful Links

Wikipedia