Exciting news is about to transform the travel experience between Chile and Argentinaespecially for those who enjoy tourism between both countries. The Provincial Government of Santa Cruz, in collaboration with the Ministry of Production, Commerce and Industry, has announced the opening of a new international air route that will directly connect Santiago de Chile with El Calafate. This initiative not only strengthens the ties between the two nations, but also promotes the economic and tourist development of the Patagonian region.
The Minister of Production, Gustavo Martínez, highlighted the importance of this new flightwhich will open the Pacific market through a direct air connection. In addition, work is being done on the possibility of implementing a regional airline that will connect different towns in Santa Cruz with smaller aircraft. This project, which involves both Chilean and Argentine authorities, promises to significantly improve connectivity and access to one of the most spectacular regions of the continent.
The new air route is the result of close collaboration between the State Secretariat of Tourism and the airline Sky, and is presented as an alternative that will benefit not only the residents of Santa Cruz, but also thousands of tourists who wish to explore the natural beauty of Argentine Patagonia. Although the final details are still being adjusted, it is expected that the flight will be operational by the end of this year, coinciding with the peak tourist season.
Current planning calls for the route to begin operations on December 18, 2024, and to remain in operation until March 16, 2025, with two weekly flights scheduled for Wednesdays and Sundays. Flights will depart from Santiago’s Arturo Merino Benítez International Airport at 4:05 p.m., arriving in El Calafate at 1:05 p.m. Argentina at 19:00. The return flight will depart El Calafate at 20:10, arriving in Santiago at 23:05, thus offering a convenient and fast option for travelers.
Rubén Martínez, Provincial Director of Tourism, has expressed his enthusiasm for this new connection, pointing out that it is a clear example of the provincial government’s efforts to promote tourism and economic development in Santa Cruz. In addition, Martínez stressed that significant efforts are being made to improve the infrastructure and tourism services in the region, ensuring that the new flight It is just the beginning of a promising future for tourism in Patagonia.
