MercoPress. South Atlantic News Agency

Santiago airport to handle 2.2 million pax this summer

From December 2007 to February 2008 an expected 2.2 million passengers will be passing through Santiago de Chile's Arturo Merino Benitez International Airport, reports The Santiago Times. This is a 10% increase over last summer, and 20% of this figure corresponds to first-time travelers, according to airport operations chief Alberto Becerra.

The most popular international destinations are Buenos Aires, Sao Paulo, Rio de Janeiro, Miami, Madrid and Lima. The most likely domestic destinations are Antofagasta, Concepción, Puerto Montt and Punta Arenas. Santiago Airport officials said peak travel times are concentrated in to three specific hours, 6 a.m., 12 p.m. and 8 p.m. As a result they suggest that travelers arrive 2.5 hours early for international flights and 1.5 hours early for domestic travel. "Air traffic has increased significantly due to discounted fares and offers" said Becerra. Travel agencies advise passengers to consult with Chile's International Police prior to departure in order to find out what documents are required according to their destination. Travelers can also visit the Web site at www.investigaciones.cl