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.

Official changes from this authority that affect passengers appear in this guide's updates as they are published. Each one is checked against the official document before it goes live.

In Chile, commercial aviation policy belongs to the Civil Aviation Board (JAC), and consumer protection law requires fare transparency:

• Price Disclosure: Airlines must display the final price (including taxes and fees) starting from the initial search.
• Hand baggage: there is no carry-on allowance guaranteed by law: on low-cost airlines' cheapest fares, only a small personal item (that fits under the seat) is free, and the cabin bag is charged separately. Check the fare before you buy.
• 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.

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: many airlines limit or ban the transport of brachycephalic (short-nosed) breeds because of the breathing risk.

• Seats: ask for seats together when booking; whether seat selection is charged depends on the airline and the fare.
• Equipment: many airlines carry a stroller and a car seat free of charge, outside the baggage allowance; check your airline's policy.
• Priority: families with lap infants usually get priority boarding.

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.
• MEDIF: passengers with medical conditions must fill in the MEDIF (Medical Information Form) for approval by the airline's medical team.
• 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/607/w3-article-5594.html
• SAG (Pet Sanitary Requirements): https://www.sag.gob.cl/ambitos-de-accion/salida-de-mascotas-de-chile-perros-y-gatos