Incident Overview
On October 8, 2025, at 13:30 UTC, a Douglas Aircraft Company DC-9-83 (registration YV3465, serial number 49452) operated by Línea Aérea de Servicio Regional (LASER), C.A., departed from Simón Bolívar International Airport (SVMI) in Maiquetía, Venezuela, on a scheduled flight to El Dorado International Airport in Bogotá, Colombia. The aircraft carried 38 passengers and 9 crew members.
Flight Progress
The flight proceeded normally at a cruising altitude of FL320. After encountering adverse weather conditions, the flight crew activated the anti-ice system (designed to prevent ice formation on critical components) and the airfoil system (to improve flight performance). Approximately 15 minutes later, while approaching the CANTON position, the cabin altitude began to increase at an uncontrolled rate of 500 feet per minute, accompanied by the illumination of the PRESSURIZATION FLOW light, indicating a possible bleed air or pressurization system failure.
Crew Actions
The crew immediately executed the procedures from the Quick Reference Handbook (QRH), but the condition did not improve. They requested and received clearance to descend to FL280, and deactivated the anti-ice system. Despite these actions, the cabin altitude continued to rise at 500 feet per minute, and the PRESSURIZATION FLOW light remained on. The crew then requested a further descent to FL260; when the problem persisted, the captain decided to return to the departure airport. During descent to FL230, the pressurization was brought under control. The aircraft landed without incident, and all crew and passengers were uninjured. The aircraft sustained the discrepancy noted above.
Investigation Findings
The investigation is ongoing, with the final report pending. The aircraft was found to be airworthy at the time of the event, with a valid certificate of airworthiness and maintenance records. The last scheduled maintenance was performed by OMAC No. 475 (Laser Airlines, C.A.) at José Antonio Anzoátegui Airport. The flight crew held valid licenses and medical certificates with appropriate ratings.
Troubleshooting conducted during the investigation indicated the need to replace the left and right Pressure Regulating Shutoff Valves. These components were replaced in accordance with the Aircraft Maintenance Manual (AMM tasks 21:31:01). After replacement, the aircraft was returned to service.
Weather and Other Details
At the time of the incident, meteorological conditions were reported as visibility unlimited, calm winds, and generally good weather throughout the day. The aircraft is a twin-engine land plane powered by two Pratt & Whitney JT8D-200 turbofan engines. The investigation was notified to the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) via the ADREP system and to the United States as the state of design and manufacture.