Introduction
On 17 March 2025, a Lanco LATAM Cargo Boeing 767-300 freighter, registration N418LA, operating flight L7-1817 from Miami International Airport (KMIA) to São Paulo Viracopos (SBKP), experienced engine cowling separation during departure from Miami.
The crew continued the flight to São Paulo, where the aircraft landed safely. The FAA is investigating the cause of the incident.
Flight & Incident Overview
• Aircraft: Boeing 767-300 Freighter
• Operator: Lanco LATAM Cargo
• Registration: N418LA
• Flight Number: L7-1817
• Route: Miami (KMIA) → São Paulo Viracopos (SBKP)
• Date: 17 March 2025
• Crew on Board: 3
• Injuries: None
• Final Outcome: Aircraft continued to destination and landed safely
Sequence of Events
1. Departure from Miami
• The Boeing 767-300 freighter departed Miami International Airport’s runway 09 on 17 March 2025.
• During departure, part of the engine cowling detached and fell onto a grassy area near the runway.
2. Crew & ATC Response
• The crew did not report any abnormalities during climb and continued their flight to São Paulo.
• Air Traffic Control (ATC) and ground personnel in Miami observed the detached cowling and reported it to the FAA.
3. Safe Landing in São Paulo
• The aircraft landed without incident at São Paulo Viracopos (SBKP) after a scheduled flight.
• No injuries were reported, and the aircraft remained on the ground for inspection and repairs.
Investigation & Findings
1. Engine Cowling Separation
• The FAA confirmed that part of the engine cowling detached on departure and was found near the runway.
• The cause of the cowling detachment is under investigation, with focus on possible maintenance issues, latch failures, or structural fatigue.
2. FAA Investigation & Aircraft Status
• The FAA reported the incident as an “Air Carrier Incident – Late Report”, meaning the report was delayed after initial occurrence.
• The aircraft is still on the ground in São Paulo, more than 50 hours after landing, pending maintenance checks.
Conclusion
The Lanco LATAM Cargo Boeing 767-300 freighter (N418LA) suffered an engine cowling separation during departure from Miami on 17 March 2025. The crew continued to São Paulo, where the aircraft landed safely.
The FAA is investigating the incident, focusing on possible maintenance or structural issues. No injuries or further damage were reported. The aircraft remains grounded in São Paulo for further inspection and repairs.
Disclaimer
“This report is based on publicly available information as of 19 March 2025. While every effort has been made to ensure accuracy, we cannot guarantee the completeness of the information provided. If you are the rightful owner of any referenced materials and wish them removed, please email takedown@cockpitking.com.”
