What happened
On January 18, 2019, at approximately 09:03 hours, a Bristell S-LSA, registration CC-AUV, crashed at the Eulogio Sánchez Aerodrome in La Reina, Chile. The aircraft, operated by BRM Aero S.R.O., was in the initial climb phase following takeoff when the engine suddenly stopped. This loss of power led to a loss of control during a turn intended to return to the runway, resulting in a ground impact and a subsequent fire. The accident resulted in one fatality (the flight instructor) and one serious injury (the student pilot).
The investigation
DGAC Chile initially closed the investigation in 2019, citing a loss of control due to engine failure without a definitive technical cause. However, following new evidence, the authority reopened the inquiry. Investigators examined technical reports from the engine manufacturer, Rotech Flight Safety–Rotax Aircraft Engines, and conducted ground tests using an identical aircraft type. These tests confirmed that a nose-up attitude during climb, combined with an open drain valve, caused fuel pressure to drop and the engine to fail in under 30 seconds. Additionally, hangar security footage revealed a fuel stain on the taxiway prior to engine start, suggesting a continuous leak. The investigation also reviewed maintenance logs and flight training manuals to evaluate the pre-flight procedures used by the crew.
Findings
- The primary cause of the engine failure was the Gascolator drain valve being left in the open position.
- During the initial climb, the aircraft's nose-up attitude allowed air to be sucked into the fuel line through the open valve, interrupting the fuel flow to the carburetors.
- The student pilot, who performed the pre-flight inspection, failed to ensure the valve was closed after draining the fuel system.
- The low altitude at the time of the engine failure left insufficient margin to safely return to the runway.
- There was no evidence of prior mechanical issues or unusual aircraft behavior in the maintenance logs or flight records.