South America’s LATAM Airlines Group officially relaunched its Sydney to Santiago direct route, with the inaugural flight departing at 12:35pm yesterday.
The Boeing 787-9 (LA810), departed at full capacity with happy holidaymakers and business travellers on board. Travellers were sent off with a true South American fiesta, farewelled by musicians playing traditional tunes and treated to the cultural delicacy, alfajores, a small taste of what adventures await them in the Latin continent.
Initially launched in 2019 and suspended due to the pandemic, the relaunched direct route will operate four times per week, transporting up to 1,200 passengers, with departures from Sydney on Sunday, Monday, Wednesday and Friday. The flights will depart Sydney 12.35pm and arrive in Santiago at 11.20am the same day (local time), a journey time of 12 hours and 45 minutes.
LATAM Country Manager – Oceania, Christopher Ellis, said the relaunch of this key route is a significant milestone for LATAM and its commitment to improving accessibility for Australians to travel to South America.
“We are pleased to provide Australia with the newest non-stop route between Sydney and Santiago, making it even easier for Australians to experience the rich culture, culinary delights and landscapes that South America has to offer. We’re confident that re-introducing this route will benefit both regions, promoting the growth of tourism and commerce,” Ellis said.
From LATAM’s hub in Santiago, passengers can take advantage of onward connections to 144 South American popular destinations including favourites Buenos Aires, Rio de Janeiro, Cuzco, Sao Paulo, Bogota and Lima.
“Whether it’s the ancient ruins of Machu Picchu, the spectacular Iguazu Falls or the vibrant Amazon Rainforest, we are thrilled to be offering travellers an even easier way to tick off their South American bucket-list experiences,” Ellis added.
The first Santiago to Sydney direct flight landed at 6.30am at Sydney Airport. Return services from Santiago to Sydney will depart at 1.40am local time on Wednesday, Friday and Sunday, arriving in Sydney at 6.30am the following day (local time), a journey time of 14 hours and 50 minutes.
The new Sydney to Santiago route complements LATAM Airlines’ current non-stop service between Santiago and Melbourne, which will increase its services to four times weekly from 4 December 2024.
Passengers flying with LATAM Airlines from Australia to Santiago will experience the superior design and technology of the Boeing 787-9 Dreamliner, which provides optimal comfort, security and efficiency. The aircraft features large auto-dimming windows, dynamic lighting and plenty of storage space.
For business class travellers, the aircraft has recently upgraded its Latin-American inspired cabin to maximise relaxation, comfort and rest. Passengers can now expect ergonomic seats that recline to 180 degrees, temperature-controlling down comforters, larger pillows and mats designed with the NASA-developed Spacer Fabric technology, which regulates temperature, ensures airflow and soothes pressure points on the body.
As for in-flight dining, travellers can enjoy an authentic South American immersion from the moment they step on board with a menu developed by emerging female chefs across the region. This is complemented with a perfectly paired wine list meticulously selected by Hector Vergara, Latin America’s only Master Sommelier.
