Experimental Aircraft Crashes Near Peldehue Aerodrome

Casualties unknown • AERÓDROMO “PELDEHUE”, CL

An experimental Velocity aircraft struck the ground during a climb-out at Peldehue Aerodrome, resulting in significant aircraft damage but no injuries.

What happened

On May 3, 2025, at approximately 11:30 local time, an Experimental Velocity SERG 1 aircraft was engaged in a recreational flight. The flight originated from Tobalaba Aerodrome (SCTB) with the intention of proceeding to Peldehue Aerodrome (SCPD). After completing the transit from the initial departure point, the aircraft began performing traffic pattern maneuvers at Peldehue.

During the initial climb phase following a departure from runway 14, the aircraft impacted the terrain approximately 1.2 NM south of the airfield. The impact occurred in a dry canal area on Chilean Army land, characterized by scrubland and meadows. Despite the force of the impact, both occupants of the aircraft remained uninjured.

The investigation

DGAC Chile investigators examined the wreckage located 2,320 meters from the threshold of runway 32. The aircraft was found oriented toward 165°, with its nose resting against a fence and the fuselage situated within a dry canal.

Physical inspection of the Experimental Velocity SERG 1 revealed significant structural damage. The nose gear and the left main landing gear were fractured, while the right main gear showed visible deformations. Analysis of the propeller blades indicated that the engine was not producing power at the moment of impact, as the blades exhibited deformations and material loss consistent with an unpowered touchdown. Furthermore, the engine mount showed deformations, and the aerodynamic profiles sustained damage related to a hard landing and subsequent impact with the canal.

Investigators also noted that the cockpit instrument panel was deformed and the electrical master switches were in the off position. Safety harnesses for both the pilot and the passenger were found to be functional and were in the open position. Samples of fuel and engine oil were collected for laboratory analysis, and technical documentation is currently undergoing review.

Findings

The aircraft sustained substantial damage to the landing gear and engine mounting components.
Evidence from the propeller blades suggests the engine was not providing power during the impact.
The impact pattern is consistent with a hard landing followed by a collision with the terrain in a dry canal.

Probable cause

The investigation is ongoing, but preliminary findings indicate the aircraft experienced a hard landing and subsequent terrain impact during the initial climb phase, with evidence suggesting a lack of engine power at the time of the event.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 2025-05-03 VELOCITY SE RG 173 accident near AERÓDROMO “PELDEHUE”, CL?

An experimental Velocity aircraft struck the ground during a climb-out at Peldehue Aerodrome, resulting in significant aircraft damage but no injuries.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 2025-05-03 involved a VELOCITY SE RG 173, at AERÓDROMO “PELDEHUE”, CL.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The investigation is ongoing, but preliminary findings indicate the aircraft experienced a hard landing and subsequent terrain impact during the initial climb phase, with evidence suggesting a lack of engine power at the time of the event.

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