As per reports, the Ministry of Public Works (MOP) is planning emergency runway rehabilitation works at Teniente Julio Gallardo Aerodrome in Puerto Natales, Magallanes Region, after identifying multiple potholes that pose operational safety risks during aircraft landings. Construction is currently scheduled to commence on 15 November and conclude on 15 May, with an estimated project cost of CLP 7.213 billion.

• Under the preferred 5×2 operating model, the aerodrome would remain closed for five consecutive days followed by two days of operations, resulting in only 28 operational days and 62 closure days during the critical January-March tourism period. According to the proposed schedule, the aerodrome would operate for 11 days in January, eight days in February, and nine days in March, while remaining closed for the remainder of each month.
• Industry groups estimate that approximately 40,000 passengers could be unable to travel during the peak summer season, potentially leading to widespread flight cancellations, itinerary changes, and refunds for tourism packages booked well in advance.
• As an alternative, the Airports Directorate has assessed a 4×3-5×2 operating model, which would increase the number of operational days during January-March from 28 to 38 while reducing closure days from 62 to 52. The revised schedule would provide 14 operational days in January, 11 days in February, and 13 days in March, although no final decision has been announced.