After a week of enjoying a stay at Park Hyatt Mendoza, we took a short flight to Santiago to connect to Miami on Latam Airways.
Why not fly to the US from Buenos Aires?
It is near impossible to get award seat space from Buenos Aires to the US on AA, United or Delta (Aerolineas Argentinas) ahead of time. Even economy flights are expensive from/to US to South America (see image below).
Latam Business Class Airport Check-in Counter
Latam has a separate business class check-in counter space that is very fast and efficient. Passport control is the worst at this airport and it took us over 40 minutes to get through to the screening.
Santiago Airport SkyTeam Lounge
I chose the SkyTeam lounge instead of the Latam lounge since it is closer to the gate of departure. You have to take the elevator to level one and the SkyTeam lounge can be accessed with a Priority Pass membership. While the lounge is bright with a view of the runway, I find the seating to be too close together (see images below).
Latam Business Class Santiago to Miami
I used 90K Alaska miles to book two business class seats from Santiago to Miami nonstop flight on Latam Airlines. Business class award availability is very good on Latam Airways and it is a great way to travel to Chile and connect to Argentina as needed.
Is using Alaska Miles to book Latam Airways a good value?
I think it is one of the best redemptions for Alaska Miles since Latam Airways typically sells business class tickets for 3-5K per person (see image below).
Latam 787-8 Business Class
The best things I noticed in Latam 787-8 Business Class are nice slippers and thick duvet covers that are packed in unique eco bags. There is plenty of storage space and the set up reminded me of the Turkish Air business cabins. The lay-flat bed is comfortable and you don’t have to fold your legs unless you are over 5 feet and 11 inches tall.
The drinks and dining is nothing special to write about, but the staff provided wonderful service.
Conclusion
The Alaska mileage plan is the best way to book Latam Airlines business class awards and I love visiting Chile and Argentina to explore Patagonia.