LATAM Airlines Chile: Frequently Asked Questions.

The most common questions tourists ask about flying LATAM in Chile — answered clearly and in English. From booking and baggage to cancellations, refunds and emergency contacts.

Chile: +56 2 2579 8990 US: 1-866-435-9526 latamairlines.com

Booking and Reservations

How do I book a LATAM flight in Chile?

You can book directly at latamairlines.com, through the LATAM app (iOS and Android), by calling +56 2 2579 8990 from Chile, or through any authorized travel agency. Booking directly on the LATAM website or app is always recommended — it gives you full control over your reservation and avoids third-party fees for changes or cancellations.

Can I book a LATAM flight in English?

Yes. The LATAM website and app are fully available in English. Go to latamairlines.com, select your country of origin at the top of the page, and switch the language to English. Phone support in English is available through the international lines, including 1-866-435-9526 from the United States.

What fare types does LATAM offer and what is the difference?

LATAM offers several fare tiers. The main categories are:

• Basic Economy (Light): lowest price, most restrictive. Includes hand baggage only, no seat selection and no changes permitted in most cases.

• Standard fare: includes carry-on baggage, allows changes with possible fare difference.

• Plus / Premium / Flexible fare: includes checked baggage, priority boarding, seat selection and free or low-cost changes. Best for uncertain itineraries.

Always calculate the total cost including baggage fees before assuming a Basic fare is cheaper. Adding luggage at the airport is always significantly more expensive than pre-paying online.

How far in advance should I book a LATAM flight in Chile?

For domestic Chile routes, booking 2–6 weeks in advance typically offers good pricing. For peak periods — January, February, July and September school holidays — book at least 6–8 weeks ahead. Patagonia routes to Punta Arenas and Puerto Natales fill up quickly in summer (December–March) and prices rise sharply closer to the travel date.

Can I book a LATAM flight for someone else?

Yes. You can purchase a ticket in another person's name on the LATAM website. Enter the passenger's details during checkout. The booking confirmation will go to the email you provide. Note that name changes on LATAM tickets are generally not permitted — make sure the passenger's name exactly matches their passport or ID before confirming the purchase.

Check-In and Boarding

When does LATAM open online check-in?

LATAM opens online check-in 48 hours before departure and closes it 2 hours before departure for most flights. Check-in can be completed on the website, in the app, or at self-service kiosks at the airport. Completing online check-in in advance saves time at the airport and lets you select your preferred seat.

Do I need to print my boarding pass for a LATAM flight?

No. LATAM accepts digital boarding passes on your phone via the app. Screenshot your boarding pass after check-in as a backup — airport WiFi can be unreliable, especially at regional Chilean airports. Printed boarding passes are also accepted at airport kiosks or check-in counters if you prefer a physical copy.

How early should I arrive at Santiago Airport (SCL) for a LATAM flight?

• Domestic flight: arrive at least 2 hours before departure

• International flight: arrive at least 3 hours before departure

• Connecting international → domestic at SCL: allow at least 2.5–3 hours for customs, immigration and terminal transfer

SCL operates two terminals — international and domestic. Transfers between them require time. Do not underestimate connection times at Santiago, especially during peak summer travel.

What documents do I need to board a LATAM flight in Chile?

• Domestic flights within Chile: Chilean citizens need their national ID card (Cédula de Identidad). Foreign tourists need their passport or valid ID recognized in Chile.

• International flights: a valid passport is required for all passengers. Some destinations also require a visa — check requirements for your nationality before traveling.

• Miami flights: completing the emergency contact field during check-in is mandatory for US-bound flights.

Baggage Questions

What is LATAM's carry-on baggage allowance?

LATAM allows one carry-on bag per passenger with maximum dimensions of 55 x 35 x 25 cm (including wheels and handles) and a maximum weight of 10 kg. It must fit in the overhead compartment. Additionally, a small personal item (handbag or laptop bag) that fits under the seat in front of you is also allowed on most fare types.

What is LATAM's checked baggage allowance?

• Basic/Light fare: no checked baggage included — must be purchased separately

• Standard domestic Chile: typically 23 kg included depending on fare

• International routes: typically 23 kg for Economy, 32 kg for Business class

• Overweight fees: charged per kilogram over the limit — always weigh your bag before the airport

Baggage policies vary by route and fare. Always verify your specific allowance in your booking confirmation before traveling.

How do I add checked baggage to my LATAM booking?

Go to latamairlines.com → My Trips, enter your booking code and last name, and select "Add baggage." Adding baggage online in advance is always cheaper than paying at the airport. You can also add it during online check-in (up to 2 hours before departure).

My LATAM luggage didn't arrive — what do I do?

Do not leave the airport. Go immediately to the LATAM baggage desk in the arrivals area and file a Property Irregularity Report (PIR) before exiting customs. Present your boarding pass and baggage claim tag. Once you leave the airport without this report, your claim is severely compromised. LATAM will search for your bag and arrange delivery to your address in Chile if found. If not found within the search period, you'll receive forms to document the bag's contents for compensation purposes.

My bag arrived damaged — what are my rights?

Report damage at the baggage desk before leaving the airport. Photograph the damage immediately. LATAM must be notified of damage within 7 days of the flight. Damage to wheels and handles may be treated as normal wear — always photograph your bag's condition before checking it in as evidence. Under the Montreal Convention, compensation for damaged luggage on international flights can reach approximately USD 1,700.

Can I bring sports equipment or oversized items on LATAM?

Yes, LATAM accepts sports equipment (bicycles, surfboards, skis, golf bags, etc.) as checked baggage, subject to specific packaging requirements and additional fees. Declare these items when booking and confirm the fees and restrictions for your specific route — rules vary between domestic Chile and international flights.

Changes, Cancellations and Refunds

Can I cancel my LATAM flight and get a full refund?

It depends on the fare type and when you cancel:

• Within 24 hours of purchase (flight at least 7 days away): full refund, no penalty. This is the safest window if plans are uncertain.

• Domestic Chile Right of Withdrawal: full refund if the request is made within 48 hours of purchase and the flight is 7–179 days away.

• Refundable ticket: full refund available at any time before travel.

• Non-refundable ticket: base fare is not refunded — government taxes and airport fees are recoverable.

• LATAM cancels your flight: always entitled to a full refund regardless of fare type.

How do I cancel a LATAM flight?

1. Go to latamairlines.com → My Trips

2. Enter your booking code and last name

3. Select the flight and choose the cancellation option

4. If purchased in Chile through LATAM's website and the online option fails, go to Help Center → Create a case for Chile

5. If purchased through a travel agency, contact the agency directly — LATAM cannot process agency-issued tickets

How long does a LATAM refund take?

Refunds to credit cards are typically processed within 7–14 business days from the date of the approved cancellation. Bank transfers may take longer. Your credit card statement may take an additional 5–15 business days to reflect the credit. If you don't receive the refund within the stated timeframe, contact LATAM via Help Center → Create a case with your cancellation reference number.

Can I change the date of my LATAM flight?

Yes, subject to fare conditions. Standard and flexible fares allow date and time changes with a possible fare difference if the new flight is more expensive. LATAM also allows passengers whose flight was cancelled or significantly rescheduled to pick a new date to the same destination within 12 months at no extra cost. To change a date: latamairlines.com → My Trips → Manage Flight → Change.

Can I change the passenger name on a LATAM ticket?

Generally, no. LATAM does not permit passenger name changes on tickets. If a name is incorrect due to a typo, minor corrections (one or two characters) may be allowed — contact customer service immediately. For major name errors, the ticket will need to be cancelled and repurchased, subject to fare rules and availability.

What if I have a medical emergency and can't travel?

If you cannot board due to a medical emergency or a close relative's death, LATAM may waive cancellation fees and offer a full refund regardless of fare type. Contact LATAM in writing via Help Center → Create a case, attach a medical certificate or death certificate, and state clearly what you are requesting. Written communication creates a paper trail that protects your claim.

Delays, Cancellations and Your Passenger Rights

My LATAM flight is delayed — what am I entitled to?

• Delay over 31 minutes (airline-caused): right to request rebooking or refund

• Delay over 3 hours (flights departing EU/UK airports): possible financial compensation of €250–€600 under EC 261/2004

• Delay over 5 hours: entitled to a full refund if you choose not to travel

• Long delay caused by LATAM: entitled to meal vouchers and hotel accommodation if overnight — always ask for these at the airport desk

My LATAM flight was cancelled — what are my options?

Three options are always available when LATAM cancels a flight:

1. Rebook on the next available LATAM flight at no cost

2. Choose a new travel date to the same destination within 12 months at no penalty

3. Request a full refund of the amount paid

For flights cancelled less than 14 days before departure on routes departing from EU/UK airports, you may additionally claim financial compensation up to €600 per person under EC 261.

LATAM cancelled my flight — will they pay for my hotel?

If your LATAM flight is cancelled and the airline cannot rebook you on an equivalent flight on the same day, you are entitled to ask for overnight accommodation, meals and transport between the hotel and airport. Request this at the airport desk before leaving. If you are not offered it proactively, ask explicitly — it is not always offered automatically. Keep all receipts.

Does weather count as an extraordinary circumstance for LATAM?

Yes. Severe weather is considered an extraordinary circumstance outside the airline's control, which means LATAM is not liable for financial compensation under EU/UK regulations. However, the airline is still required to rebook you or offer a refund even in weather-related cancellations. Note that airlines sometimes claim extraordinary circumstances when the cause was actually within their control — always ask for the written reason for the cancellation.

I missed my connecting LATAM flight because of a delay — what happens?

If all legs are on the same LATAM reservation (single PNR) and a LATAM-caused delay made you miss the connection, LATAM is fully responsible for rebooking you on the next available flight to your final destination at no charge. Go directly to the LATAM desk as soon as you land. If your flights are on separate bookings, the missed connection is your responsibility — travel insurance covering missed connections is essential in that case.

I was denied boarding on my LATAM flight — what are my rights?

If you are denied boarding involuntarily due to overbooking, you are entitled to: immediate rebooking on the next available flight, a full refund if the alternative doesn't suit your needs, meal vouchers and hotel accommodation if needed, and financial compensation for flights departing EU/UK airports (up to €600). For flights departing the US, you are entitled to cash compensation of 200% of the one-way fare (minimum USD 775, maximum USD 1,550 depending on delay length).

LATAM App and Website

Does LATAM Airlines have an app?

Yes. The LATAM Airlines app is available for free on iOS (App Store) and Android (Google Play). It is available in English and allows you to book flights, manage reservations, check in, download boarding passes, track your luggage, receive real-time flight notifications and access LATAM Pass (frequent flyer) account management. It is the fastest tool for managing your journey on the go.

How do I manage my LATAM booking online?

Go to latamairlines.com → My Trips (top navigation). Enter your booking code (PNR) — a 6-character alphanumeric code found in your confirmation email — and your last name. From there you can change dates, add baggage, select seats, check in and request refunds.

I can't find my LATAM booking confirmation — what do I do?

Check your spam or junk folder first. If purchased through a travel agency, the confirmation goes to the agency's email. If you still can't find it, call LATAM at +56 2 2579 8990 (Chile) or 1-866-435-9526 (US) with your full name and travel date — they can retrieve your booking by passenger name.

LATAM Pass — Frequent Flyer Program

What is LATAM Pass?

LATAM Pass is the largest frequent flyer program in South America by number of members. You earn points on every LATAM flight and with partner hotels, car rentals and credit cards. Points can be redeemed for flights, seat upgrades, lounge access and other benefits. Enrollment is free at latamairlines.com → LATAM Pass.

Can tourists join LATAM Pass?

Yes. Any passenger regardless of nationality can register for LATAM Pass and immediately start earning points on their flights. If you're traveling Chile for more than a few days and taking multiple flights, joining before your first LATAM flight means those points are credited to your account — you can also retroactively claim points from recent flights by submitting your flight details in the LATAM Pass portal.

Destinations and Routes

Where does LATAM fly within Chile?

LATAM operates the most extensive domestic network in Chile, connecting Santiago (SCL) with:

• North: Arica, Iquique, Calama, Antofagasta, Copiapó, La Serena

• Centre: Concepción, Temuco

• South: Valdivia, Osorno, Puerto Montt, Castro (Chiloé)

• Patagonia: Coyhaique / Balmaceda, Puerto Natales, Punta Arenas

• Easter Island: direct flight from Santiago to Mataveri Airport (IPC)

Does LATAM fly from Chile to Europe?

Yes. LATAM operates direct flights from Santiago (SCL) to several European cities including Madrid, London, Frankfurt, Paris and Rome. These routes are operated by LATAM's long-haul fleet and connect South America to Europe without a stopover, making LATAM the primary option for direct Europe-Chile travel.

Does LATAM fly to the United States from Chile?

Yes. LATAM operates flights from Santiago to Miami (MIA) and New York (JFK). Miami is the primary US gateway with multiple weekly frequencies. Connections to other US cities are available through codeshare agreements with partner airlines.

Does LATAM fly to Easter Island?

Yes. LATAM is the only airline that operates scheduled commercial flights between Santiago (SCL) and Easter Island (IPC / Rapa Nui). Flights take approximately 5 hours. As the sole carrier, seats fill up quickly and prices are high — book as far in advance as possible, especially for travel between December and March.

Special Situations and Passenger Tips

I missed my LATAM domestic flight — can I still use my return ticket?

For domestic flights within Chile, if you miss the outward leg of a round-trip ticket, it does not automatically cancel your return flight. You can check in and take the returning aircraft. It is recommended to notify LATAM in advance of your intention to use only the return leg so they can assist you with check-in.

Can children fly alone on LATAM?

Yes. LATAM offers an Unaccompanied Minor service for children aged 5–17 traveling alone. This service must be arranged in advance through customer service and includes an additional fee. The child is supervised by cabin crew throughout the flight and handed over to a designated adult at the destination. Contact LATAM before booking to confirm availability on your route.

Can I bring my pet on a LATAM flight?

Yes, subject to restrictions. Small pets (cats and dogs) may travel in the cabin in an approved carrier on some routes. Larger pets travel in the cargo hold as checked baggage. Regulations vary by route — pets are not permitted in the cabin on all international flights. Advance arrangement is required. Contact LATAM at least 48 hours before departure to confirm availability and requirements for your specific route.

How do I request wheelchair assistance on LATAM?

Request wheelchair assistance when booking your ticket or by calling LATAM at least 48 hours before departure. At the airport, notify check-in staff upon arrival. LATAM provides wheelchair service from the check-in desk through to your seat on the aircraft. Priority boarding is also available for passengers with reduced mobility.

How do I file a formal complaint against LATAM Chile?

Start with LATAM's official channels: latamairlines.com → Help Center → Create a case. If unsatisfied with the response, escalate to:

• JAC (Junta Aeronáutica Civil): Chile's civil aviation authority — www.jac.gob.cl

• SERNAC (consumer protection): www.sernac.cl — available to foreign tourists

• EU/UK compensation claim: for flights departing Europe, use services like AirHelp or AirAdvisor on a no-win, no-fee basis

Want to know more about how aviation works in Chile?
Read our complete guide: LATAM Airlines Chile: Complete Help Guide for Tourists →

Every LATAM flight from Santiago is operated by pilots and technicians certified by Chile's DGAC. If aviation sparked your curiosity, www.aerotest.cl is where Chilean aviation professionals prepare for every official DGAC exam — pilots, mechanics and drone operators.