Punta Arenas is served by just one airport, Carlos Ibanez Del Campo Intl. Airport (PUQ).

It’s 18 kilometres from Punta Arenas Intl. Airport to downtown Punta Arenas. Make things easier by working out the fastest way of commuting from the airport to the city center before you touchdown.

With only one major airport servicing Punta Arenas, it won’t take you long to find the best flight. You’ll be taking off to Carlos Ibanez Del Campo Intl. Airport (PUQ), which is located around 18 kilometres from downtown.

With 3 airlines flying into Punta Arenas from at least 6 airports across the globe, your ideal flight is just a few clicks away.

LATAM Airlines and Sky Airline operate the largest proportion of flights to Punta Arenas. One of the most common ways to travel there is on a LATAM Airlines flight from Santiago.

With roughly 49 direct flights running every week, you’ll be touching down in Punta Arenas before you can ask, “Are we there yet?”

Flights to Punta Arenas from Santiago, Puerto Montt and Puerto Williams airports are the most sought after.

If you’re flying to Punta Arenas from Santiago, you’ll have a flight duration of 3 hours and 22 minutes. Those jetting off from Puerto Montt can expect to be traveling for 2 hours and 11 minutes. From Puerto Williams it’s approximately 1 hour and 5 minutes away.

We all know those fortunate travelers who somehow manage to land extremely cheap airfares wherever they go. Eager to know how to do it for your Punta Arenas vacation? Don’t leave it until the last minute to lock in your flight. Another easy way to land the most affordable fare is to research all options. If where you’re headed has more than one airport, don’t forget to look into the cost of flying into a less busy terminal. Finally, be prepared to lock in your seat quickly if you stumble on a great price. It might not stick around for long! With a bit of know-how and a little luck, the perfect fare can be yours.

Wherever you’re coming from, flying can be a pleasurable experience if you’re well prepared. Take a peek at these handy tips that will get your Punta Arenas vacation started on the right foot.What to pack in your hand luggage:

• It’s simple — first, pack in your passport, important documents, credit cards and daily medications. Next, you’ll need some in-flight entertainment to while away the hours. A juicy book and a laptop filled with your favorite shows are good options. If you intend to take a short nap, a comfy neck pillow and a pair of earplugs will also come in handy. Finally, find room for a toothbrush and some facial wipes to ensure you touchdown feeling fresh as a daisy.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• Check carefully that you don’t have sharp objects (like a knife or scissors) lurking in one of the compartments of your hand luggage. Other restricted items include explosive or flammable products, such as aerosol cans and fuel, and liquids and gels in containers with a capacity of more than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters).

What to wear on a flight:

• Comfort should always be your prime concern when choosing what to wear on your flight. Consider your choice of footwear with care too, as swollen feet and ankles are a common side effect of flying. Flat, slightly roomy shoes are always a sensible way to go.
• Most travelers have heard about deep vein thrombosis (DVT), a blood clot condition caused by long periods of inactivity. There’s lots you can do to reduce your risk. Wear a good-quality pair of compression socks or tights, stay well hydrated and remember to keep your legs and feet moving. Walk the aisles of the cabin or try out some simple stretches in your seat.

As seasoned travelers know, the secret is to be well prepared before you reach the airport security gate. That way, you’ll be stepping onto that plane to Punta Arenas in the blink of an eye. Follow these helpful tips and get your vacation off to a fantastic start:

• Security personnel first need to know that you have a valid ID and travel documents before you can proceed any further. Have them close by, ready for inspection.
• Next up, both you and your carry-on bag will be X-rayed. To speed things up, remove anything that is likely to set the alarm off. Personal belongings like your belt, coat and headphones need to go through the machine.
• For just a few minutes, you’ll have to unplug from the digital world. Your phone, laptop and any other electronics will need to go through the scanner.
• Can’t travel without your favorite perfume or cologne? As long as the volume is no greater than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) and it’s stored in a clear zip-lock bag, you’re allowed to bring it with you in your carry-on luggage.
• Lightweight sneakers are a practical footwear choice as you’re less likely to be required to remove them when passing through security. Safety boots and other heavy shoes are often subjected to additional screening.
• Avoid taking prohibited items in your carry-on bag. If you have any sharp objects like a pocket knife or tools, pack them in your checked suitcase. They won’t be allowed on board and will be confiscated.