No fatalities

Post-Takeoff Loss of Control Incident at Temuco-La Araucanía Airport (CC-PEC)

Freire, ChileTakeoff (climb)

On January 20, 2025, a Piper PA-31-310 Navajo (registration CC-PEC) operated by Victor Manuel Villagra Cuevas was involved in an aviation accident near Freire, Chile during takeoff. No fatalities were reported. This summary draws on records from the Bureau of Aircraft Accidents Archives (B3A).

Sourcesthe Bureau of Aircraft Accidents Archives (B3A)Primary reportUpdated 2026-06-11Data APIEditorial standards

An aircraft lost control shortly after departing Temuco-La Araucanía Airport, crashing into an agricultural area south of the runway. The airframe was destroyed by fire, but all four occupants were rescued, with only the pilot sustaining injuries.

Incident Overview

A loss-of-control event occurred immediately following the departure phase from Temuco-La Araucanía Airport. According to official investigation records, the pilot encountered an unexpected situation shortly after takeoff, which resulted in a complete loss of control over the aircraft.

Crash Sequence and Impact

The uncontrolled flight path led the airplane to crash into an agricultural zone situated south of the airport. Upon impact, the airframe burst into flames. The post-crash fire was severe enough to destroy the entire aircraft structure.

Casualties and Rescue Operations

Despite the total loss of the airframe, all four individuals on board were successfully rescued from the wreckage. Medical assessments indicated that only the pilot sustained injuries during the incident. The remaining three occupants emerged unharmed.