Arturo Merino Benítez International Airport . Photo: JHVEPhoto / Shutterstock.com Chilean aviation authorities are investigating a security breach at Santiago's Arturo Merino Benítez International Airport after an unauthorized individual allegedly entered a restricted area and vandalized an aircraft.
According to the Directorate General of Civil Aeronautics (DGAC), the incident occurred in the airport's eastern sector, an area currently closed due to ongoing construction works.
Preliminary information indicates that the individual gained access by allegedly cutting a hole in the airport's perimeter fence before entering the restricted zone, where several out-of-service aircraft are parked.
Once inside, the person reportedly spray-painted graffiti on one of the aircraft.
Airport authorities said the incident was quickly detected and reported to Chile's Investigative Police (PDI), which has launched an investigation to identify those responsible and determine exactly how the breach occurred.
The DGAC strongly condemned the incident, describing it as a serious violation of airport security.
In a statement, the agency said it "expresses its complete rejection of any breach of airport security" and confirmed that a comprehensive internal review has been launched.
The investigation will examine potential responsibilities, assess security measures in the affected area, and determine whether additional safeguards or disciplinary actions are required.
Officials have not indicated whether airport operations were affected by the incident. The breach occurred in a construction zone rather than an active operational area of the airport.
Arturo Merino Benítez International Airport is Chile's largest airport and serves as the country's primary international gateway.