Engine Failure Leads to Emergency Landing in Antofagasta

Casualties unknown • RUTA B-475, ANTOFAGASTA, CL

A Vulcan Air P68T experienced a right engine failure during an aerial photography mission, resulting in an emergency landing on a secondary road in Chile.

What happened

On September 15, 2025, at approximately 03:30 local time, a Vulcan Air P68T (model P.68TC Observer) was conducting an aerial photography mission in the Antofagasta Region of Chile. The aircraft, operated by a commercial pilot accompanied by one passenger, was flying toward the Minera Escondida area along route B-475. During the flight, the aircraft's right engine ceased operation. In response to the engine failure, the pilot performed an emergency landing alongside a secondary road near the B-475 route, approximately 50 km southeast of the mission's destination.

The investigation

The DGAC Chile investigation is currently in the data collection and analysis phase. Authorities are examining the circumstances surrounding the engine failure to determine the underlying cause. The investigation aims to identify any mechanical or operational factors that contributed to the loss of power in the right engine during the mission.

Findings

  • The aircraft experienced a failure of the right engine.
  • The flight crew and passenger sustained no injuries.
  • The Vulcan Air P68T suffered no damage during the emergency landing.

Probable cause

The investigation is ongoing to determine the specific cause of the right engine failure.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 2025-09-15 VULCANAIR P68T accident near RUTA B-475, ANTOFAGASTA, CL?

A Vulcan Air P68T experienced a right engine failure during an aerial photography mission, resulting in an emergency landing on a secondary road in Chile.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 2025-09-15 involved a VULCANAIR P68T, at RUTA B-475, ANTOFAGASTA, CL.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The investigation is ongoing to determine the specific cause of the right engine failure.

Investigation report by the Chilean Directorate General of Civil Aeronautics (DGAC Chile). Original record: https://www.dgac.gob.cl/informes-2025/. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the Direccion General de Aeronautica Civil (DGAC), Chile.

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