DGAC Chile

The Dirección General de Aeronáutica Civil (DGAC) is the Chilean state body, under the authority of the Chilean Air Force, responsible for the regulation, oversight, and administration of civil aviation activities in the country. Its jurisdiction encompasses all Chilean airspace, airport infrastructure, crew licensing, aircraft certification, and the enforcement of operational safety (Safety) and protection against acts of unlawful interference (Security). The DGAC operates in strict compliance with ICAO (International Civil Aviation Organization) standards and coordinates with the Junta de Aeronáutica Civil (JAC) regarding passenger rights and air transport policy.

Chilean regulation, through the JAC and supervised by the DGAC, mandates full pricing transparency:

• Price Disclosure: Airlines must display the final price (including taxes and fees) starting from the initial search.
• Carry-on Baggage: Passengers are legally entitled to one piece of carry-on luggage (generally up to 10kg) at no extra cost, provided it complies with cabin dimensions.
• Checked Baggage: The baggage allowance policy is flexible, but it must be clearly detailed at the time of purchase. If a passenger chooses "low-cost" fares that do not include checked bags, the cost must be itemized separately before the final transaction.
• Right of Withdrawal: Passengers have the right to cancel their purchase within 7 days of acquisition (provided the purchase is made at least 7 days before the flight), with a full refund, in accordance with the consumer protection guidelines of SERNAC (Servicio Nacional del Consumidor).

Pet transport is subject to strict protocols:

• Documentation: A Zoosanitary Export Certificate (issued by the SAG - Servicio Agrícola y Ganadero) is required for international flights, along with an up-to-date vaccination record (Rabies vaccination is mandatory).
• Safety: The DGAC requires that transport crates (kennels) be certified according to IATA standards, ensuring proper ventilation and structural integrity.
• Restrictions: Transport of brachycephalic (short-snouted) breeds is limited or prohibited by several airlines due to respiratory risks at altitude, a safety recommendation supported by the DGAC.

• Seating: Airlines are guided to seat minors (under 12 years old) next to their legal guardians at no additional cost.
• Equipment: The transport of strollers and child safety seats is free of charge and must not be deducted from the passenger's baggage allowance.
• Priority: Families with infants are granted priority boarding and, in the event of flight delays, priority in assistance and rebooking.

Chile follows strict standards for passengers with reduced mobility (PRM):

• Wheelchairs: Assistance services (transport from check-in to the aircraft) are free and mandatory; they must be requested at least 48 hours in advance.
• FORMEC/MEDIF: For passengers with medical conditions, it is necessary to complete the MEDIF (Medical Information Form) for authorization by the airline's medical department.
• Mobility Equipment: Electric wheelchairs must be declared, complying with DGAC safety regulations regarding battery transport (dangerous goods regulations).

• DGAC Chile (Main Website): https://www.dgac.gob.cl
• Aeronautical Regulations (DAN): https://www.dgac.gob.cl/normativa-aeronautica/
• Civil Aviation Board (Passenger Rights): https://www.jac.gob.cl
• SERNAC (Air Passenger Guide): https://www.sernac.cl/portal/619/w3-propertyvalue-63097.html
• SAG (Pet Sanitary Requirements): https://www.sag.gob.cl/ambitos-de-accion/transporte-de-mascotas-al-extranjero