Since last Sunday, March 28th, 2010, the main terminal of the airport in Santiago de Chile is fully operating again; arrivals and departures of both national as well as international flights are handled normally in the main terminal. Shops and restaurants have also re-opened their businesses.
The airport building did not suffer any structural damages, except of a collapsed pedestrian walkway, also the large window panes remained undamaged with very few exceptions. However, most parts of the ceiling came tumbling down, and panelling as well as lights were broken. Therefore, the airport is working in collaboration with the Ministry of Public Construction on a new design that ought to resist much better in case of future earthquakes.
As one of the six pedestrian walkways collapsed during the earthquake, it has been decided to remove all walkways for security reasons in order to realize a sound inspection and reparation. As a temporary solution, three provisional walkways were installed.
Since there are still repair and cleaning works being done in the main terminal, only passengers and authorized personnel are allowed to enter the building so far. Persons accompanying passengers may use the infrastructure provided in the large tents next to the terminal, which previously were occupied for the flight handling. It is being estimated that the situation will return to normal by the end of April.