What happened
On December 27, 2025, at approximately 15:45 local time, a private pilot was conducting a recreational flight departing from the Caldera Aerodrome (SCCL) in the Atacama Region. While in flight, the Quad City Challenger II ultralight aircraft experienced a reduction in engine power. This loss of performance necessitated an emergency landing in the Playa el Morro area, located within the commune of Caldera. The aircraft came to rest on the sandy shoreline of the coast. The pilot, who was the sole occupant of the aircraft, sustained no injuries, though the aircraft suffered damage.
The investigation
DGAC Chile investigators traveled to the accident site, located approximately 6.2 nautical miles from the Caldera Aerodrome, to examine the wreckage and the surrounding environment. The investigation confirmed that the aircraft was positioned on the sand, facing south. Physical inspection of the Quad City Challenger II revealed that the airframe remained structurally intact, but the aircraft sustained damage resulting from the impact with the sand and water. The investigation is currently in the phase of gathering technical data regarding the aircraft's mechanical state and reviewing meteorological conditions to further analyze the event.
Findings
- The primary factor leading to the emergency landing was a reduction in engine power during the flight.
- The landing site was a sandy area on the coastal edge of Playa el Morro.
- The aircraft sustained damage to its structure due to the landing conditions.