Lydia Webb, Marketing Director – Americas & Strategic Programs, Cirium
SCL has recently undergone significant modernization, including the opening of its new 248,400 m² international Terminal 2. This expansion more than doubled the airport’s annual passenger capacity from 16 million to 38 million, establishing it as one of South America’s most advanced aviation facilities.
SCL is a vital asset for Chile’s economy, connectivity, and infrastructure. It serves as Latin America’s gateway to Oceania, with routes to Sydney, Melbourne, Auckland, and Easter Island. The airport also serves as a long-haul hub for global carriers like Air France and British Airways. It also houses Chile’s major airlines, maintenance operations, and the Chilean Air Force’s 2nd Air Brigade.
An Economic Pillar for the Chilean Economy
Tourism is a major economic pillar for Chile, and SCL directly influences visitor inflows. Early 2025 saw the airport handle over five million passengers in just two months, a 4.4% increase compared to 2024. International arrivals surged—particularly from Brazil, Argentina, and Peru—reflecting growing demand for regional tourism and business travel. By functioning as the primary entry point for international travelers, SCL directly feeds revenue into Chile’s national and local economies.
The airport is at the center of one of the largest infrastructure expansions in Chile’s history—a $4 billion program aimed at tripling capacity by 2050. This longterm project will help reshape Chile’s role in global aviation and commerce by increasing operational capacity to 84 million passengers and 125 operations per hour, three times its current levels.
Commitment to OnTime Performance
Santiago Arturo Merino Benítez International Airport made significant strides in operational performance during 2024–2025, despite capacity pressures and ongoing modernization. As Chile’s busiest airport, SCL improved its on-time performance (OTP) to 87.04% in 2025, a 4.20% improvement from 2024, even while managing rapid growth in international travel.
Looking Ahead
SCL’s operational performance is projected to continue its upward trend. This will be driven by several strategic initiatives including the construction of a third runway and terminal and the introduction of a light rail for improved access.
SCL’s strategic investments underscore its commitment to operational excellence. This proactive approach not only addresses current demands but also solidifies its position as a forward-thinking, high-performing facility prepared to meet future challenges.
