What happened
On January 26, 2025, at approximately 14:04 local time, a Cessna 182Q was conducting a flight from Carriel Sur Aerodrome (SCIE) in Concepción toward Viña del Mar (SCVM). The aircraft was operated by a commercial pilot accompanied by three passengers.
While flying approximately 25 nautical miles north of SCIE, near the Trehuaco sector in the Ñuble Region, the pilot declared an emergency to air traffic services due to an engine failure. Following this declaration, the aircraft struck the terrain. The impact occurred against a small hill, causing the aircraft to overturn on its left side. The crash resulted in two fatalities among the passengers and left the pilot and one other passenger with serious injuries. The aircraft sustained substantial damage.
The investigation
DGAC Chile investigators examined the wreckage and determined that the aircraft's flight control surfaces remained intact and no parts were missing from the site. The debris field was consistent with the trajectory of an emergency landing attempt. There was no evidence of any mid-air collisions or contact with other objects prior to the impact, and no post-crash fire occurred.
Investigators reviewed the aircraft's maintenance history, noting that the operator had been performing mandatory maintenance at an authorized maintenance center. The aircraft's documentation, including the certificate of airworthiness and flight logs, were found to be valid and on board. The investigation also traced the fuel loading of 75 liters performed at Carriel Sur to ensure its integrity.
Findings
- The primary cause of the accident was an engine failure.
- Meteorological conditions at the time of the accident were suitable for Visual Meteorological Conditions (VMC).
- The aircraft's weight was within certified parameters at the time of the event.
- Communications between the crew and air traffic services were functioning normally until the emergency declaration.