Day 12: Visit to LAN

Today we had our company visit to LAN airlines. 

We were up early for the drive to Santiago since LAN is near the airport. The first thing we had to do was go through security. Then we met our tour guide Luis who has been working for LAN for twenty years. He first took us to the hanger where planes are repaired and inspected. 

Here we learned more about LAN's fleet. We learned that the older planes like the 767 have to come in for repairs more frequently than say a 787. The reason for this is that a 787 is made of composite material, so it does not suffer from corrosion, which is the number one reason for repairs. These newer planes are far more expensive to purchase, but since their maintence costs are lower, they are more cost effective in the long run.

After this, we all got to take a tour of a 787. We got to see the huge, luxurious first class as well as the cockpit of the plane. It was really cool to see this new plane, which will soon be the new standard of flying. 

Throughout the whole company visit, it was easy to see why LAN has been rated one of the best companies to work for. The facilities were very nice and everyone seemed happy to be there.

After our visit, we stopped for lunch at a typical Chilean restaurant. The food was very filling, which is exactly what we all needed. Then we were back on the road. We had a quick stop at the hotel before heading to the university for reggaetone classes. We were all a bit worn out from the day, but we made the class fun. It was cool to learn a less formal style of dance. 

For dinner, a group of us decided to splurge on dinner and try Peruvian food. The meal was absolutely delicious and worth every peso! Dessert was also very good. 

I can't believe this was the last meal that we are paying for ourselves. 

Tomorrow we have our last company visit to Viña Idomita and a trip to Pablo Nerdua's house. Our two weeks have flown by!