Although plans to build an airport near Concepción date back to 1954, construction began only in 1960, shortly after the 22 May earthquake, as it became imperative to build a modern airport to link Chile's south-central region with the rest of the country.

[citation needed] In 2000, the original terminal building was decommissioned and turned over to the aviation authority for administrative use.

A new terminal, operated by AEROSUR S.A., was opened north of the latter allowing the installation of four jetways, Customs and Immigration service, a VIP lounge, and a duty-free store.

The old ramp was retained, increasing the number of parking spaces from five to ten (the original five plus four jetways and one remote parking adjacent to jetway #4) The airport is located 6 km (4 mi) from Concepción downtown and 12 km (7 mi) from Talcahuano downtown.

This service is provided using non-radar protocols, in coordination with Santiago's Area Control Center.