What happened
On October 8, 2025, at 13:30 UTC, a Douglas DC-9-83, registration YV3465, operated by LASER Airlines (Línea Aérea de Servicio Regional, C.A.), was performing a scheduled flight from Maiquetia International Airport to El Dorado International Airport in Bogotá, Colombia. The aircraft was carrying 38 passengers and 9 crew members.
While cruising at 32,000 feet, the crew encountered adverse weather conditions and activated the anti-ice system and airframe performance systems. Approximately 15 minutes after activating the anti-use system, the cabin altitude began to rise uncontrollably at a rate of 500 feet per minute, accompanied by a "PRESSURIZATION FLOW" warning light. The crew followed the Quick Reference Handbook (QRH) procedures, but the condition persisted. After requesting descent clearances to 28,000 feet and 26,000 feet and deactivating the anti-ice system without success, the captain decided to return to the departure airport. Upon descending to 23,000 feet, the crew was able to regain control of the pressurization. The aircraft landed safely at Maiquetia with no injuries to the passengers or crew.
The investigation
Investigators conducted interviews with the flight crew and reviewed all relevant documentation, including pilot licenses, medical certificates, and aircraft maintenance logs. The inspection focused on the air conditioning and pressurization systems. Technical troubleshooting was performed in coordination with the airline's maintenance organization (OMAC N° 475).
Findings
- The investigation identified a malfunction within the air conditioning pressure supply system.
- Troubleshooting revealed that both the left and right pressure regulating shutoff valves were faulty.
- The uncontrolled cabin altitude ascent was directly linked to the failure of these components following the activation of the anti-ice system.