Pilot Makes Emergency Landing on Brazilian Highway After Mid-Flight Engine Failure (Video)

The single-engine aircraft is seen here on the side of the highway

A pilot safely landed a single-engine Flyer Pelican 500BR on the BR-101 highway in Garuva, northern Santa Catarina, at approximately 11:50 a.m. on Saturday, April 5, 2025, following a sudden engine failure. The aircraft, which was en route toward Porto Alegre, Rio Grande do Sul, was carrying two occupants—the pilot and the plane’s owner. No injuries were reported.

According to the Federal Highway Police (PRF), the aircraft had departed from the Guaramirim aeroclub, also in northern Santa Catarina, when the engine malfunctioned shortly after takeoff. With limited options, the pilot quickly assessed the situation and managed to land the plane safely on the highway at kilometer 15, maneuvering between vehicles in active traffic.

The single-engine aircraft is seen here on the side of the highway

Emergency responders from the PRF promptly closed off the highway to ensure safety and coordinated the disassembly and removal of the aircraft via truck. The pilot’s swift decision-making and precise handling of the situation were praised by authorities for preventing what could have been a serious accident.

An investigation into the cause of the engine failure is underway.