The Diego Aracena Airport in Iquique has officially become the second-largest air terminal in Chile, following an extensive expansion project completed under the supervision of the Minister of Public Works, Jessica López. The ambitious infrastructure improvements, which cost over $62 million, have significantly enhanced the airport’s capacity and efficiency, positioning it as a key hub for air travel in the country.
A Major Expansion Project
The renovation project introduced two additional boarding bridges, increasing the total number to six. This upgrade has facilitated smoother passenger flow and improved operational efficiency. Furthermore, the Passenger Terminal Building has undergone a remarkable 150% expansion, allowing for better accommodation of travelers.
In addition to expanding the airport facilities, maintenance work was carried out on both pre-existing and new infrastructure, ensuring optimal functionality within the concession area.
Significance of the Upgrade
Thanks to these improvements, Iquique’s airport has solidified its position as the second-largest in Chile, surpassed only by the Arturo Merino Benítez International Airport in Santiago. In terms of passenger volume, it now ranks as the seventh busiest airport in the country, following Santiago, Antofagasta, Calama, Carriel Sur, and Puerto Montt.
In 2024, the airport registered a total of 845,558 embarked passengers, reflecting its increasing importance in the national air transport network.
New Features and Enhancements
The modernization of Diego Aracena Airport includes a variety of new services and facilities aimed at improving both passenger experience and airport operations:
- Two new boarding bridges, bringing the total to six.
- New Aeronautical Facilities, including:
- A new SSEI Fire Station and SSEI Vehicle Platform.
- A new casino and auditorium for DGAC (General Directorate of Civil Aviation).
- A new DGAC electrical substation.
- Expansion of the DGAC logistics building.
- A new SAR (Search and Rescue) building.
- Expansion of aircraft parking areas to the north and south, along with improvements to the taxiway.
- A new Wastewater Treatment Plant to enhance environmental sustainability.
- Revamped access roads and vehicle circulation areas for smoother traffic management.
- Increased parking spaces, totaling 614 slots for vehicles.
- Expansion of aircraft movement areas to facilitate better air traffic handling.
- Two new commercial aircraft parking positions to accommodate growing demand.
- 16 new check-in counters for improved passenger processing.
- Four additional Avsec (airport security) screening points, increasing from six to a total of ten.
Passenger Traffic Statistics
Diego Aracena Airport continues to experience high passenger volumes. In 2024, 845,558 passengers embarked from Iquique, highlighting its significance as a major travel hub in Chile’s northern region.
As of February 2025, the airport has already recorded 164,473 embarked passengers, with an estimated 69,000 additional travelers expected in March 2025. These figures underscore the ongoing growth and strategic importance of the airport in national and regional connectivity.
Looking Ahead
The recent expansion of Diego Aracena Airport marks a milestone in Chile’s aviation infrastructure. With improved facilities, increased capacity, and enhanced passenger services, the airport is well-positioned to support future growth in air travel. As demand continues to rise, the airport’s modernization efforts will play a crucial role in sustaining efficient and seamless operations for both domestic and international travelers.
This transformation aligns with Chile’s broader Airport Plan, which aims to modernize key terminals across the country, ensuring that they meet the evolving demands of travelers and the aviation industry.
