Major Investments in Northern Chilean Airports
In a significant move to boost infrastructure in Chile’s northern regions, the Sacyr-Cointer consortium has made a substantial economic offer to secure the concession rights for the operation and expansion of two key airports—the Atacama Desert Airport in Caldera and the Andrés Sabella Airport in Antofagasta.
The proposal marks a pivotal step forward for the Northern Airport Network project, reflecting a growing need for modernised, efficient airport facilities in this fast-growing region. The total project investment is set to reach an estimated USD 316 million, aiming to elevate both airports to world-class standards, facilitating improved services and greater capacity in the years ahead.
Atacama Airport Preparing for Future Growth
The Atacama Desert Airport, located near Caldera, is slated for a significant overhaul under the proposed plan. Currently operating with a passenger terminal covering 2,952 m², the airport’s terminal space will be expanded by a substantial 15,322 m², bringing the total area to 18,274 m². This large-scale expansion is expected to transform the airport’s ability to accommodate increasing passenger traffic, particularly as tourism and business activities in the region continue to grow.
The project envisions several crucial upgrades aimed at enhancing the passenger experience and operational efficiency. Key highlights include:
- New Boarding Bridges: Four additional boarding bridges will be constructed, significantly improving passenger flow during peak times.
- Parking Capacity Boost: Vehicle parking spaces will see a dramatic increase, growing from 182 to 343 spaces, while aircraft parking slots will increase from three to five.
- Improved Check-in Facilities: The number of self-check-in totems will rise from two to ten, accompanied by an increase in traditional check-in counters from ten to sixteen.
- Enhanced Security and Customs Areas: The airport will feature four AVSEC (airport security) posts, four PDI (Policía de Investigaciones) control posts, and an international flight-specific SAG/Customs control post.
- Expanded Baggage Handling: With the increase in passenger capacity, baggage claim facilities will be upgraded from two belts to three, ensuring smoother, faster luggage handling.
These upgrades are designed not only to cater to current demand but also to future-proof the airport as passenger numbers continue to rise.
Andrés Sabella Airport in Antofagasta Doubling Down on Capacity
The Andrés Sabella Airport, serving the important Antofagasta region, is another focal point of this major investment. The current passenger terminal, with a surface area of 10,192 m², will undergo a massive expansion, adding 21,230 m² to reach a total of 31,422 m².
This represents an impressive 208% growth, underlining the region’s strategic importance as a hub for both domestic and international flights.
Some of the most notable enhancements include:
- Increased Parking Facilities: The airport’s vehicle parking will expand by 281 spaces, raising the total capacity from 572 to 853. Additionally, commercial aircraft parking slots will increase from eight to ten.
- More Boarding Bridges: The addition of five new boarding bridges will bring the total to nine, further facilitating passenger movement and reducing congestion during peak travel periods.
- Upgraded Check-in and Security Posts: The number of self-check-in totems will increase from seven to ten, alongside an increase in traditional counters from 25 to 26. The airport’s AVSEC checkpoints will more than double, from two to five, while PDI checkpoints will triple from two to six.
- New Customs Infrastructure: The installation of a SAG/Customs checkpoint, which is currently non-existent, marks a significant improvement for international travellers.
- Baggage Handling Overhaul: The baggage claim area will be expanded to include five carousels, up from the current two.
These upgrades aim to position Andrés Sabella Airport as a premier gateway to northern Chile, capable of handling larger passenger volumes while delivering an improved user experience.
A Boost for Northern Chile
The total investment of USD 316 million represents not just a financial commitment but also a broader vision to support economic growth in Chile’s northern regions. The project is expected to be awarded by the fourth quarter of 2024, with construction set to begin in 2027 and full operations anticipated by 2030.
Local stakeholders, government officials, and industry experts have all expressed optimism regarding the project’s potential. By modernising these key airports, the region is likely to see significant economic benefits, including increased tourism, smoother business travel, and improved logistics for industries such as mining, which is a cornerstone of the local economy.
“This is a critical step for enhancing connectivity and economic development in the region,” said a representative from the Ministry of Public Works. “The improvements at Atacama and Antofagasta airports are necessary to keep pace with the rapid growth we’re witnessing across multiple sectors.”
Sacyr-Cointer Consortium
The Sacyr-Cointer consortium, a key player in the infrastructure sector, brings a wealth of experience to the table. The group has a solid track record of successfully managing large-scale projects across Latin America and beyond, ensuring that the Northern Airport Network project will be delivered to a high standard.
Moreover, the consortium’s focus on sustainability and innovation aligns well with Chile’s broader infrastructure goals. The new airport facilities will incorporate modern, environmentally friendly technologies aimed at reducing carbon footprints while enhancing operational efficiency.
A Bright Future for Chilean Aviation
With the proposed expansions at Atacama Desert Airport and Andrés Sabella Airport, the northern regions of Chile are poised to experience a new era of growth and connectivity. These developments will not only cater to the needs of increasing passenger numbers but also open new avenues for economic prosperity across multiple industries.
By 2030, once the project reaches full operational capacity, Chile’s northern airports will stand as a testament to the country’s commitment to progress and its readiness to embrace the future of air travel. For travellers, businesses, and local communities alike, these enhanced facilities promise a smoother, more efficient travel experience, paving the way for continued growth in the years to come.
