What happened
On February 25, 2022, at approximately 00:30 UTC, a Boeing 737-3H4, registration YV645T, operated by Rutaca Airlines, was performing a scheduled flight from Maiquetía International Airport (SVMI) to Puerto Ordaz (SVPR). The aircraft was carrying 144 passengers and 7 crew members.
While cruising at 27,000 feet, the crew observed a low oil pressure warning light for the number two engine. Upon inspection of the engine instruments, the pilot noted that the oil pressure for the right engine had dropped below 13 PSI. Following the procedures outlined in the Quick Reference Handbook (QRH), the pilot requested an immediate return to Maiquetía from the Area Control Center. The crew proceeded to shut down the affected engine in accordance with established emergency protocols. The aircraft landed safely at SVMI without further incident, and there were no injuries among the occupants.
The investigation
The investigation involved a comprehensive review of flight crew licenses, medical certifications, and aircraft maintenance records. Authorities examined documentation from the operator and the maintenance organization (OMAC) responsible for recent scheduled services.
Technical inspections were conducted on the engine systems, including checks of the magnetic particle detectors and operational tests of the oil system. Maintenance personnel performed inspections according to the Aircraft Maintenance Manual (AMM), specifically focusing on the oil system and particle detection. Following these tests, it was confirmed that there were no active oil leaks and that the system was functioning correctly.