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Chilean Air Force Black Hawk Found in Patagonia With Three Survivors, One Dead

The crash followed a humanitarian support flight over the Southern Patagonian Ice Field, with an inquiry now underway.

Overview

  • The MH-60M from Grupo de Aviación No. 9 was located the morning after losing contact near the Eduardo García Soto refuge in the Aysén region.
  • FACh identified the deceased as Capt. Sergio Hidalgo Leiva, the helicopter’s pilot, and confirmed the other three occupants were rescued alive.
  • The survivors were declared out of life‑threatening danger, treated locally, and are slated for transfer to the FACh Institutional Hospital in Santiago.
  • Search operations mobilized helicopters, fixed‑wing aircraft, and PARASAR teams in harsh wind and low temperatures that hindered access.
  • The Air Force opened an investigation into the accident and is supporting families, as national leaders and institutions offered condolences.