Mocopulli Airport (MHC)

Mocopulli Airport (SCPQ/MHC), also known as Chiloé Airport, serves as the principal air gateway to the culturally rich Chiloé Archipelago in southern Chile. Its strategic importance lies in connecting this geographically distinct island group with the Chilean mainland, significantly boosting tourism and providing a vital link for local residents. The airport facilitates access to the island's unique wooden churches, a UNESCO World Heritage site, and its distinctive palafito stilt house architecture.

Inaugurated in November 2012, Mocopulli Airport is a relatively modern facility designed to replace the smaller and less accessible Gamboa Aerodrome in Castro. Its construction was a key part of a national initiative to improve infrastructure and connectivity for remote regions of Chile. The airport is conveniently situated alongside Chile's main highway, the Ruta 5 Sur, in the commune of Dalcahue. It is located approximately 20 kilometers north of Castro, the island's primary city, and about 55 kilometers south of Ancud. Travelers can reach the airport via rental car, pre-booked private transfers, or shared shuttle services (minibuses) that coordinate with flight schedules to connect with major towns.

Operations at Mocopulli are exclusively domestic. The primary route connects Chiloé with Santiago's Arturo Merino Benítez International Airport (SCL), a flight of roughly two hours. Major national carriers, including LATAM and Sky Airline, operate regular flights, with frequency often increasing during the high tourist season from December to February. The airport manages a significant flow of passengers, primarily tourists drawn to the island's natural beauty and culture, as well as island residents traveling for business or family matters.

The airport consists of a single, compact, and functional terminal building. Inside, travelers will find essential amenities including airline check-in counters, a security checkpoint, a communal departures lounge with seating, and a baggage claim area. Facilities are modest, reflecting the airport's regional scale. There is a small café offering snacks and beverages, a souvenir shop with local crafts, and on-site counters for major car rental agencies. The airport does not have VIP lounges or extensive dining options.

For a smooth travel experience, passengers are advised to arrive 90 minutes to two hours before their scheduled departure. It is highly recommended to pre-book ground transportation, such as rental cars or shuttle seats, particularly during the peak summer months, as availability can be limited upon arrival. The airport's small size makes it easy to navigate, but services and transport options are most active immediately before and after flight arrivals and departures. Having some Chilean pesos on hand can be useful for smaller purchases or transport.