In 1988, a Boeing 737 on final approach to Tepual Airport in Puerto Montt, south of Santiago, suddenly encountered a large white light surrounded by green and red illumination moving toward the airplane on a collision course. The pilot made a steep turn to avoid impact, and the phenomenon was also observed by control tower personnel.
The Incident
The Boeing 737 was on final approach to the runway at Tepual Airport in Puerto Montt City.
A large white light surrounded by green and red illumination appeared, moving in the opposite direction straight at the airplane.
The pilot executed a steep turn to the left to avoid collision.
Witnesses
- Pilot of the Boeing 737 observed the light on collision course and took evasive action.
- Control tower personnel also saw the phenomenon.
Significance
This case demonstrated that unidentified flying objects can be a danger to air operations.