What happened
On December 22, 2021, an Air Tractor AT802A aircraft, registered in Spain, was engaged in aerial firefighting operations near Coelemu, Chile. The aircraft departed from El Litral Aerodrome to address a forest fire located on a hillside.
Upon arriving at the fire site, the pilot performed a reconnaissance flight and identified the target area as a slope covered with pine and eucalyptus trees. To comply with company operating procedures—which mandate discharging water in a downward direction to ensure a successful drop in the event of a system failure—the pilot initiated a descent along the slope. During the water release maneuver, the left wing of the aircraft struck eucalyptus trees. Following the impact, the pilot determined the aircraft was handling normally and proceeded to Carriel Sur Aerodrome, where the aircraft landed without further incident.
The investigation
DGAC Chile conducted an investigation into the incident, examining the aircraft's maintenance records, the pilot's credentials, and the environmental conditions. The investigation confirmed that the pilot held valid licenses and ratings, and the aircraft's airworthiness was properly maintained under an approved program.
Physical inspections of the Air Tractor AT802A revealed structural damage to the leading edge of the left wing, including deformed skin and sheared rivets. The investigation also reviewed the pilot's account, noting that while visibility was good and weather conditions were suitable for VFR flight, the terrain geometry played a critical role in the event.