Vallenar Airport, also known as Teniente Matamala Airport, is a small airport located in the town of Vallenar, which is in the Atacama Region of Chile. This airport serves the local community and provides vital air connections to other regions in the country. Despite its small size and limited facilities, Vallenar Airport plays a crucial role in facilitating transportation and promoting economic development in the region.

The airport is named after Teniente Justo Matamala, a Chilean military aviator who was killed in an airplane accident in 1927. It is one of the many regional airports in Chile that are named after prominent figures in the country's aviation history. The airport is managed by the municipality of Vallenar and is operated by the Civil Aeronautics Directorate of Chile.

Vallenar Airport has a single runway with a length of 1,200 meters (3,937 feet) and an elevation of 226 meters (741 feet) above sea level. The runway is paved and is capable of handling small to medium-sized aircraft. The airport does not have a control tower, so pilots must rely on visual flight rules when operating in and out of the airport.

The airport has a small terminal building that houses check-in counters, a waiting area, and other basic facilities for passengers. There are no shops or restaurants at the airport, so passengers are advised to bring their own snacks and drinks. The airport does not have customs or immigration facilities, so it is only used for domestic flights within Chile.

Vallenar Airport serves as a gateway to the Atacama Region, which is known for its diverse landscapes, including deserts, mountains, and coastline. The region is a popular destination for tourists seeking outdoor activities such as hiking, biking, and surfing. The airport also plays a vital role in supporting the local mining industry, which is a major driver of the region's economy.

Despite its importance, Vallenar Airport faces several challenges that limit its ability to serve the community effectively. The airport's infrastructure is outdated and in need of renovation. The lack of customs and immigration facilities restricts the airport's ability to handle international flights, which limits its potential for growth.

In recent years, there have been discussions about the need to upgrade Vallenar Airport to meet the growing demand for air travel in the region. Improvements such as expanding the runway, building a new terminal building, and installing modern navigation and communication systems have been proposed to enhance the airport's operational capabilities.

Overall, Vallenar Airport is a vital transportation hub that connects the town of Vallenar to the rest of Chile. Despite its limitations, the airport plays a crucial role in supporting the region's economy and promoting tourism. With proper investment and upgrades, Vallenar Airport has the potential to become a modern and efficient air gateway for the Atacama Region.