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Nuevo Chaitén Airport (WCH/SCTN) is a regional airfield serving Chaitén, a remote town in Chile's Los Lagos Region. Built after the 2008 Chaitén volcano eruption damaged the original airport, it sits roughly 18 km north-northwest of town near the Corcovado Gulf. It mainly handles light aircraft and regional flights, providing a key link to Puerto Montt and the wider Patagonian network.
💡 Local Tip
Frequent visitors know to book morning flights and keep a buffer day—afternoon winds and volcanic ash can cancel the only flight of the day, and the next seats may be days away.
🚖 Getting There
The airport is outside Chaitén, so pre-book a taxi or transfer; there is no regular public bus service to the terminal. The drive from town takes about 25–35 minutes via the Carretera Austral and local access roads. For early flights, confirm your pickup the night before and allow extra time for weather or road delays.
❓ Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What airlines fly to Nuevo Chaitén Airport?
A: Service is limited and can change seasonally; regional carriers such as Aerovías DAP have operated flights to Puerto Montt. Check current schedules with your airline or local booking agent.
Q: How far is the airport from Chaitén town?
A: It is roughly 18 km (11 mi) north-northwest of central Chaitén, about a 25–35 minute drive depending on road conditions.
Q: Are there taxis or rental cars at the airport?
A: The airport is small, so taxis and transfers are usually arranged in advance from Chaitén; rental cars are limited and should be booked ahead in town.
Q: Is the airport affected by volcanic ash or weather?
A: Yes, Chaitén volcano and Patagonian weather can cause delays or cancellations. Keep flexible plans and confirm flight status before traveling.
AI-generated content · Generated Sep 30, 2026 · deepseek-v4.1-flash