Diego Aracena International Airport
Located on the scenic Pacific coast of Chile, the Diego Aracena International Airport (IATA: IQQ, ICAO: SCDA) serves as the primary aviation hub for Iquique, the capital of the Tarapacá Region. Situated in Chucumata, approximately 48 kilometres (30 mi) south of the city, this facility is essential for connecting the northern reaches of Chile with domestic and international destinations.
The airport is unique in its operational structure, functioning as a dual-purpose public and military facility. It shares its primary runway with the Los Cóndores Air Base, which serves as the headquarters for the First Air Brigade of the Chilean Air Force.
[ไม่มีภาพประกอบ]Key Facts
- Location: Chucumata, 48 km south of Iquique, Chile.
- Codes: IATA: IQQ | ICAO: SCDA.
- Operator: A-port Operaciones S.A.
- Elevation: 156 feet (48 metres) above mean sea level (AMSL).
- Runway: A single asphalt runway (01/19) measuring 3,350 metres (10,991 ft).
- Dual Use: Shared with the Chilean Air Force's Los Cóndores Air Base.
Airport Infrastructure and Operations
The airport is managed by A-port Operaciones S.A. and is designed to handle both commercial passenger traffic and strategic military operations. Its location at a low elevation of 156 feet (48 m) AMSL ensures favorable conditions for a wide variety of aircraft types.
Runway Specifications
The facility features a high-capacity asphalt runway, designated as 01/19. With a total length of 3,350 metres (10,991 ft), the runway is capable of supporting large commercial jets and military transport aircraft.
[ไม่มีภาพประกอบ]Airlines and Destinations
Diego Aracena International Airport provides critical connectivity for residents and tourists, offering a mix of domestic Chilean routes and strategic international links.
Passenger Services
Several major airlines operate out of IQQ, connecting Iquique to key cities across Chile and neighboring countries:
- JetSmart Chile: Provides flights to Antofagasta, Arica, Concepción, La Serena, and Santiago de Chile.
- LATAM Chile: Operates routes to Arica and Santiago de Chile.
- Sky Airline: Connects Iquique with Santiago de Chile.
- Boliviana de Aviación: Offers services to La Paz.
- Paranair: Scheduled to begin services to Asunción and San Salvador de Jujuy starting 2 August 2026.
Cargo Operations
Beyond passenger travel, the airport is a node for logistics. LATAM Cargo Chile manages international freight operations, connecting the region to global hubs including Amsterdam and Campinas.
[ไม่มีภาพประกอบ]Airport Summary Table
| Feature | Detail |
|---|---|
| IATA/ICAO Codes | IQQ / SCDA |
| Operator | A-port Operaciones S.A. |
| Location | Chucumata, Chile |
| Runway Surface | Asphalt |
| Runway Length | 3,350 m (10,991 ft) |
| Elevation | 156 ft (48 m) |
Frequently Asked Questions
Where is Diego Aracena International Airport located?
The airport is located in Chucumata, on the Pacific coast, approximately 48 kilometres (30 mi) south of Iquique, Chile.
Does the airport serve military purposes?
Yes, it is a public/military airport that shares its runway with the Los Cóndores Air Base, home to the First Air Brigade of the Chilean Air Force.
Which airlines fly from Iquique to Santiago?
JetSmart Chile, LATAM Chile, and Sky Airline all operate flights between Iquique and Santiago de Chile.
What are the cargo capabilities of the airport?
LATAM Cargo Chile operates cargo flights from the airport to international destinations such as Amsterdam and Campinas.
When will Paranair begin flights to Iquique?
Paranair is scheduled to begin flights to Asunción and San Salvador de Jujuy on 2 August 2026.