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San Martín de los Andes Airport Overview
San Martín de los Andes Airport, also known as Chapelco Airport (IATA: CPC, ICAO: SAZY), is a public airport serving San Martín de los Andes in Neuquén Province, Argentina. Nestled in the heart of Patagonia’s Andes, it is approximately 22 km northeast of the city centre. It is a vital gateway to this picturesque mountain resort, renowned for its ski slopes, lakes, and outdoor adventures. The airport supports general aviation and seasonal commercial flights, enhancing connectivity for tourism in the Lanín National Park region.
General Information
Serves: San Martín de los Andes, Neuquén Province, Argentina
Country: Argentina
ICAO: SAZY
IATA: CPC
Elevation: 2,569 ft (783 m)
Coordinates: 40°04′31″S 71°08′14″W
Airport Type: Public (general aviation, seasonal commercial flights)
Domestic/International: Domestic (no international customs/immigration facilities)
Timezone: UTC-3 (ART, Argentine Time, no daylight savings)
Distance from City: ~22 km northeast of San Martín de los Andes city centre (20–30 min by car)
Official Airport Website: None (no dedicated website; managed by local authorities or ANAC, www.anac.gov.ar for general aviation info)
Operational Details
Runways: 1
Longest Runway: 2,500 x 45 m (8,202 x 148 ft), asphalt
PCN: Not published (suitable for light to medium aircraft, e.g., ATR-72; confirm with airport authority)
Fire Category: CAT 5–6 (estimated for airports with seasonal commercial flights)
Tower Frequency: 118.9 MHz (confirm with airport authority)
Ground Frequency: None
Navaid: Yes (Chapelco VOR/DME, Ident: CHP, on-site)
AOE (Airport of Entry): No
Type of Aircraft Handled: Light to medium aircraft (e.g., Cessna, Piper, ATR-72 for seasonal flights)
Terminal Capacity: Small passenger terminal (handles seasonal commercial flights)
Cargo Capacity: Minimal (limited to small packages for private flights)
Fuel Types: Avgas, Jet A-1 (confirm availability with aeroclub)
FBO: None available
Equipment Available: Basic ground handling (e.g., tie-downs, chocks, passenger stairs; confirm specifics)
Ground Handler Information: No formal ground handling services are documented. Operations are managed by Aeroclub San Martín de los Andes or local airport authorities, providing support for general aviation and seasonal commercial flights (e.g., parking, refuelling coordination). Contact Aeroclub at +54 2972 421 234 (unverified; general San Martín aviation contact). External ground handlers from larger airports (e.g., Bariloche) may be arranged for special operations.
Operational Information
Permit Approval Lead Time: 48 hours
PPR: Not required
Slots: Not required
Alternate Airports:
- SAEZ (Buenos Aires, ~1,300 km)
- SAAR (Rosario, ~1,200 km)
- SARI (Iguazú, ~2,000 km)
- Recommended: SAZS (Bariloche, ~160 km), SAZN (Neuquén, ~400 km)
Contact Numbers
Police: +54 2972 422 111 (San Martín de los Andes Police, general line)
Fire: +54 2972 421 100 (San Martín de los Andes Fire Department)
Customs: Not applicable (no customs service)
Airport Authority/Ground Handler: +54 2972 421 234 (Aeroclub San Martín de los Andes, unverified)
Tourist Information
Immigration Rules: Valid passport; visa for some nationalities (USA, EU, Canada visa-free for 90 days)
Crew Requirements: Uniform, passport, visa (if applicable), Gendec for private flights
Ground Transport: Car rentals available, shuttle services, non-metered taxis (fare to the City: 2,000–4,000 ARS, negotiate)
Accommodation:
- Loi Suites Chapelco Hotel (luxury, near the airport)
- Hotel Le Chatelet (comfortable, central)
- Hosteria La Posta del Cazador (budget-friendly)
- Currency: Argentine Peso (ARS)
Tourist Attractions Near San Martín de los Andes Airport
San Martín de los Andes, a charming mountain resort town 22 km from the airport, pulses with the vibrant spirit of Patagonia, where snow-capped peaks, crystal lakes, and lush forests create a playground for adventure. Renowned for its ski resort, Lanín National Park, and outdoor pursuits, this dynamic hub captivates with its alpine beauty and cultural warmth. Attractions within 22–50 km are reachable by car or taxi in 20–60 minutes, offering exhilarating experiences.
Cerro Chapelco Ski Resort
A world-class ski destination 20 km from the City, this resort dazzles with powdery slopes, stunning Andean views, and vibrant après-ski scenes. Winter brings skiers and snowboarders, while summer offers hiking and mountain biking amid breathtaking vistas.
Distance: ~25 km (25–35 min by car).
Why Visit: Thrilling alpine adventure for adrenaline junkies and nature lovers craving epic landscapes.
Lago Lácar
The shimmering heart of San Martín, this turquoise lake 22 km away, offers kayaking, fishing, and scenic beaches framed by forested peaks. Its tranquil waters and hiking trails spark a sense of serenity and adventure in Lanín National Park.
Distance: ~22 km (20–30 min by car).
Why Visit: Heart-pounding outdoor pursuits or serene escapes in Patagonia’s pristine wilderness.
Ruta de los Siete Lagos
A breathtaking 50 km drive to Villa La Angostura, this scenic route weaves through seven stunning lakes, including Lácar and Machónico, with panoramic views of the Andes. Stopovers for hiking and photography ignite the senses.
Distance: ~50 km (50–60 min by car).
Why Visit: An exhilarating road trip through Patagonia’s iconic landscapes is a must for explorers.
Parque Nacional Lanín
A vast wilderness 30 km away, this national park captivates with towering Lanín Volcano, ancient araucaria forests, and diverse wildlife like pumas and condors. Trails and guided tours offer thrilling encounters with untouched nature.
Distance: ~30 km (30–40 min by car).
Why Visit: Deep dive into Patagonia’s raw beauty, which is ideal for hikers and wildlife enthusiasts.
Plaza San Martín
The town’s vibrant heart, this charming square radiates alpine elegance with its wooden architecture and bustling cafés. Evening markets and folk performances ignite the air, inviting travellers to sip mate with locals.
Distance: ~22 km (20–30 min by car).
Why Visit: Electric hub to soak in the town’s cultural warmth and Patagonian charm.
Additional Notes
Connectivity: 400 km from Neuquén (5–6 hr by car/bus, Ruta Nacional 40). The nearest commercial airport is SAZS (Bariloche, 160 km).
Accessibility: Urban attractions 22–25 km (taxi: 2,000–4,000 ARS); rural sites require car/tours. Buses to Bariloche (160 km), Neuquén (400 km).
Seasonal Highlights: June–August for skiing; summer (Dec–Feb) for hiking and lakes; spring (Sep–Nov) for mild weather.
Practical Tips: Carry ARS; book accommodations (e.g., Loi Suites) for ski season; savour Patagonian lamb at Restaurante El Regional. Contact Aeroclub San Martín de los Andes (+54 2972 421 234) for ground handling.
