Puerto Montt and San Carlos de Bariloche are in the final stage of efforts to restore the direct flight between the two cities, which takes about 45 minutes, with the goal of having it operate this summer, according to [El Cordillerano](https://www.elcordillerano.com.ar/noticias/2026/10/26/269598-de-puerto-montt-a-bariloche-en-45-minutos-buscan-que-los-vuelos-directos-vuelvan-este-verano) (October 26, 2026). What is missing is a two-way customs scanner for El Tepual airport, for which the Los Lagos Regional Council approved CLP 146 million; the purchase is out to tender. There is still no airline, date or tickets on sale.
A delegation led by the mayor of Puerto Montt, Rodrigo Wainraihgt, visited Bariloche airport to learn about its operations. The mayor said the scanner is the final stage of the project, an "air bridge" between the two cities, according to La Angostura Digital. Bariloche's mayor (intendente), Walter Cortés, and the governor of Los Lagos, Alejandro Santana, are also involved.
What is still needed for the Puerto Montt-Bariloche direct flight
| Item | Status as of October 27, 2026 |
|---|---|
| Customs scanner at El Tepual | Funded (CLP 146 million, Los Lagos Regional Council); tender with three interested companies |
| Airline | Not announced |
| Start date | Goal: summer season 2026-2027, no confirmed date |
| Tickets | Not on sale |
Sources: El Cordillerano and La Angostura Digital (October 25 and 26, 2026). No airline has confirmed the route. Bariloche's tourism secretary, Eric Guzmán, described it on October 19 as an initiative at a preliminary stage, according to Ladevi: "If we generate demand, it will be more feasible to talk to the airlines and add flights."
Why the Puerto Montt-Bariloche flight fell through in 2025
SKY Airline had announced the route for April 2025, with two weekly flights on Mondays and Fridays and a projection of about 2,400 passengers a month, but it suspended sales because El Tepual lacked the customs inspection equipment needed for international flights, according to La Angostura Digital and Aviacionline. According to the Bariloche press, the two cities have gone some 15 years without a direct flight.
Bariloche, a growing airport
| Bariloche airport (2025) | Figure |
|---|---|
| Total passengers | 2,571,000 (record, +8%) |
| International passengers | About 140,000 (+51%), on direct flights to Santiago and São Paulo |
| Rank among Argentine airports | Fifth by passengers |
| Daily flights in high season | About 25; in July, 35 to 40 |
Source: La Angostura Digital, with data from Teniente Luis Candelaria airport (October 25, 2026). In addition, SKY's seasonal route between Santiago and Bariloche will operate again in December, January and February, according to Emprotur, Bariloche's tourism promotion agency, cited by Ladevi.
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See advertising optionsHow to travel between Puerto Montt and Bariloche while there is no direct flight
By land, the trip takes between four and six hours via the Cardenal Samoré pass, depending on road conditions and border queues. It is the third-largest point of entry for foreign tourists to Chile, although between January and August 2026 its arrivals fell 39.7%, according to Sernatur via Ladevi. We explain it in border crossings with the most tourists.
- By bus: there are regular services between Puerto Montt, Osorno and Bariloche via Cardenal Samoré; check schedules with the companies, because the pass can close due to snow.
- By car: you need the owner's authorization if the car is not yours and the mandatory insurance to drive in Argentina.
- Across the lakes: the Cruce Andino links Puerto Varas and Bariloche across lakes Todos los Santos, Frías and Nahuel Huapi, combining buses and boats.
- By plane with a stopover: today you get there with a connection in Santiago or Buenos Aires.
To plan the Chilean side of the trip, see things to do in Puerto Montt and things to do in Puerto Varas. The season's air news is in new air routes to Chile for the summer.
Frequently asked questions
Is there a direct flight between Puerto Montt and Bariloche?
No, as of October 27, 2026. The authorities aim to restore it this summer, but no airline, date or tickets have been confirmed.
How long is the flight from Puerto Montt to Bariloche?
About 45 minutes, according to the authorities of both cities. By land, the trip takes four to six hours.
Why is there no direct flight?
Because El Tepual airport does not yet have the customs scanner required for international flights. Its purchase is funded and out to tender.
