Photo by Matheus Triaquim on PexelsHow long do I need for a layover at Arturo Merino Benitez International (SCL)?
We recommend at least 1 hour for a comfortable connection at Arturo Merino Benitez International. The minimum connection time is 45 minutes for domestic flights and 60 minutes for international flights. Transit between terminals takes up to 25 minutes.
What is the minimum connection time at SCL?
Domestic-to-Domestic: 45 min. Domestic-to-International: 60 min. International-to-Domestic: 75 min. International-to-International: 60 min. These are the shortest layovers airlines will sell at Arturo Merino Benitez International.
Is SCL easy to connect through?
Santiago's Arturo Merino Benítez is LATAM Airlines' primary South American hub, built around a single large unified terminal that opened in 2021 combining domestic and international operations under one roof. Connections are generally straightforward on foot, though immigration and customs queues for international arrivals can be the real bottleneck rather than the walk itself. The domestic and international piers are linked by a long internal walkway within the same terminal complex, typically a 10-15 minute walk. Some flights are parked on remote stands and require an apron bus, adding 10-15 minutes; international arrivals must clear Chilean immigration and customs before reaching the domestic pier or baggage recheck area.
Is 30 minutes enough for a layover at SCL?
Still too tight, especially if immigration or a remote-stand bus is involved. See full 30 min guide →
Is 45 minutes enough for a layover at SCL?
Meets the domestic-domestic MCT but leaves no buffer for delays or gate changes. See full 45 min guide →
Is 1 hour enough for a layover at SCL?
Meets MCT for domestic-international and international-international connections comfortably in most cases. See full 1 hr guide →
Is 1 hour 15 min enough for a layover at SCL?
Covers the international-domestic MCT, allowing time to clear immigration and reach the domestic pier. See full 1¼ hr guide →
Is 1½ hours enough for a layover at SCL?
Comfortable buffer for any connection type, including remote-stand bus transfers. See full 1½ hr guide →
Is 2 hours enough for a layover at SCL?
Very safe margin for all connection types, including checked baggage transfers. See full 2 hr guide →
Is 2½ hours enough for a layover at SCL?
Well beyond any realistic delay scenario at SCL. See full 2½ hr guide →
Is 3 hours enough for a layover at SCL?
Excess buffer; consider a lounge visit given LATAM's Panorama or VIP lounges in the terminal. See full 3 hr guide →
Is 4 hours enough for a layover at SCL?
More than enough time, effectively a long layover rather than a tight connection. See full 4 hr guide →