LATAM Returns To Melbourne From September 2023

South American airline LATAM has announced that it will be resuming flights between Melbourne and Santiago from September 2023. The move comes as LATAM aims to rebuild its international network and recover from the impact of the pandemic.

The non-stop service from Melbourne to Santiago was first introduced in 2017 but was suspended in 2020 due to the pandemic. The resumption of flights will provide Australian travellers with more options to travel to South America.

LATAM will operate three flights per week on the route, with the Boeing 787-9 aircraft featuring the airline’s latest cabin design and amenities, including lie-flat seats in business class. Passengers will also have access to in-flight entertainment and Wi-Fi, as well as a variety of meals and drinks.

The Melbourne – Santiago Schedule

Starting September 1, passengers travelling from Melbourne to Santiago can expect the following flight schedule from LATAM Airlines.

• Flight LA804 is set to depart Melbourne at 12:25pm every Tuesday, Thursday, and Saturday, and will arrive in Santiago at 11:20am on the same day.
• Conversely, Flight LA805 will leave Santiago at 12:55am on Monday, Wednesday, and Friday, and will arrive in Melbourne at 5:30am the following day.

How to book LATAM Airlines Using Qantas Points

While LATAM isn’t a OneWorld airline anymore, they are still a partner with Qantas. This allows Qantas Frequent Flyer to use their points for flights onboard LATAM.

For the Melbourne to Santiago journey you can expect to pay 50,500 Qantas Points in economy and $85 in surcharges for a one way flight or 119,200 Qantas Points and $85 in fees for a one way business class flight from Melbourne to Santiago, excellent value for the 12h55 minute flight!

To learn more about Qantas Classic Flight Rewards, check out our guide here.

Summing Up

The resumption of the Melbourne-Santiago route is a positive development for both Australian and South American travellers, as it provides a convenient and comfortable way to travel between the two regions.