While Santiago's Andean departure is visually strong (3.5), the landing sequence on the right side is exceptional. Lago Argentino and Perito Moreno Glacier represent one of the world's most dramatic glacial landscapes visible from a commercial flight approach, scoring 4.0+ for the landing alone. The cruise segment over Patagonia's steppe and lakes favors the right side's views of glacial terrain. Left side's westbound cruise offers only open Atlantic and flat plains, capping its overall score at 3.5.
Flown SCL to FTE? Did we get it right?
Flight Path
Santiago to El Calafate is 1,169 miles (1,881 km), a flight of about 3 hours 15 minutes.
Andes cordillera (including active volcanic zones near Villarrica and Lanín), Neuquén Province's high-altitude plateau, Patagonian steppe with scattered lakes (Lago Nahuel Huapi region visible to the south), transition from temperate Chilean forests to arid Patagonian grasslands
Great circle distance and headings ›
Phase by phase
Takeoff from SCL
LEFTLeft side captures Santiago's urban sprawl against the Andes backdrop during climb-out, with the snow-capped peaks of the Central Chilean cordillera rising dramatically to the east. Right side faces westward toward the Pacific coastal plains with minimal terrain drama.
Landing at FTE
RIGHTRight side offers the dramatic approach to El Calafate over the Patagonian steppe and glacial lakes. The descent reveals the turquoise waters of Lago Argentino and the Perito Moreno Glacier's white expanse, one of South America's most visually striking natural features. Left side faces the open Atlantic and featureless Patagonian plains.
Will your flight be in sunlight?
Pick a date and time in the Sun Map to watch the sun move across your whole flight.
About This Route
Which side of the plane should I sit on flying from Arturo Merino Benitez International (SCL) to El Calafate - Commander Armando Tola International Airport (FTE)?
Sit on the Right side of the plane for the best views on flights from Santiago to El Calafate. While Santiago's Andean departure is visually strong (3.5), the landing sequence on the right side is exceptional. Lago Argentino and Perito Moreno Glacier represent one of the world's most dramatic glacial landscapes visible from a commercial flight approach, scoring 4.0+ for the landing alone. The cruise segment over Patagonia's steppe and lakes favors the right side's views of glacial terrain. Left side's westbound cruise offers only open Atlantic and flat plains, capping its overall score at 3.5.
What can I see during takeoff from Arturo Merino Benitez International in Santiago?
During takeoff from Arturo Merino Benitez International (SCL), sit on the Left side for the best views. Left side captures Santiago's urban sprawl against the Andes backdrop during climb-out, with the snow-capped peaks of the Central Chilean cordillera rising dramatically to the east. Right side faces westward toward the Pacific coastal plains with minimal terrain drama. Notable sights include: Andes Mountains (snow-capped peaks), Santiago metropolitan area, Mapocho River valley, Cerro San Cristóbal.
What can I see when landing at El Calafate - Commander Armando Tola International Airport in El Calafate?
When landing at El Calafate - Commander Armando Tola International Airport (FTE), sit on the Right side for the best views. Right side offers the dramatic approach to El Calafate over the Patagonian steppe and glacial lakes. The descent reveals the turquoise waters of Lago Argentino and the Perito Moreno Glacier's white expanse, one of South America's most visually striking natural features. Left side faces the open Atlantic and featureless Patagonian plains. Notable sights include: Lago Argentino (turquoise glacial lake), Perito Moreno Glacier, Patagonian steppe, El Calafate town.
How long is the flight from Santiago to El Calafate?
The flight from Arturo Merino Benitez International (SCL) to El Calafate - Commander Armando Tola International Airport (FTE) takes about 3 hours 15 minutes. The shortest flight path between them is 1,169 miles (1,881 km); winds and air traffic control usually add a few percent.
What does the Santiago to El Calafate flight path pass over?
Andes cordillera (including active volcanic zones near Villarrica and Lanín), Neuquén Province's high-altitude plateau, Patagonian steppe with scattered lakes (Lago Nahuel Huapi region visible to the south), transition from temperate Chilean forests to arid Patagonian grasslands