LATAM Airlines announced the resumption of daily flights between Santiago and Chile’s Easter Island, also known as Rapa Nui.
The airline is the only operator serving the island. The change comes after three years of reduced frequency due to pandemic-related lockdowns.
In August, Easter Island reopened its borders following a vote by its residents, enabling twice-weekly commercial flights to Santiago.
Pedro Edmunds Paoa, the island’s mayor, stated that the island’s survival would be uncertain without this air connection.
Before the pandemic, LATAM had daily flights to and from the island.
Roberto Alvo, CEO of LATAM Airlines Group, mentioned that resuming daily operations signifies a partial recovery from pandemic setbacks.
The airline also highlighted that increased flight frequency would facilitate waste transportation from the island to mainland Chile.
Located about 3,750 kilometers from Chile, Easter Island is one of the most remote inhabited territories in the world.
It used to attract around 100,000 tourists each year. A one-way flight from Santiago to Easter Island takes 5.5 hours, and the return journey is 4 hours and 45 minutes.
Background
The return to daily flights is a significant milestone for Easter Island, often celebrated for its monumental statues called moai.
These statues draw thousands of tourists annually, boosting the local economy.
The air route between Santiago and the island is a tourist pathway and a vital supply line. This air connection depends on essential goods, including food and medical supplies.
The pandemic’s impact was deeply felt on the island, as tourism is one of its primary revenue sources.
Limited flights made it difficult for the island’s economy to bounce back.
The increase in flights could stimulate economic growth and job creation, bringing much-needed relief to the residents.
Roberto Alvo’s comments also reflect a broader trend in the airline industry.
As vaccination rates rise and countries ease restrictions, airlines worldwide are gradually recovering.
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