Cessna 152 accident in Melipilla, Chile

Overview and Flight Details On May 25, 2022, a Cessna 152 aircraft, serial number 15280722, was involved in an accident at Fundo las Tinajas in the commune of Melipilla, Santiago Metropolitan Region, Chile. The aircraft was operated by a student pilot during a solo navigation training flight. The flight originated from the Aeródromo de Melipilla (SCMP). ## Accident Sequence During the flight, the student pilot reported observing smoke in the cabin after crossing the 'Las Arañas' waypoint at 3,500 feet. The pilot then reported experiencing engine vibrations and a perceived explosion, which led to a complete engine failure. The pilot attempted an emergency landing in a nearby rural area. The aircraft came to rest after colliding with trees, and a post-impact fire destroyed the aircraft. ## Damage and Injuries The student pilot sustained minor injuries. The aircraft was destroyed by fire. Damage to the aircraft included multiple dents on the wings, a destroyed wing root, and a detached left main wheel. The engine suffered significant damage, including a detached cylinder, a fractured crankcase, and deformed propeller blades. ## Aircraft and Maintenance Information The aircraft was a 1978 Cessna 152 with 7,941.29 flight hours. It was powered by a Lycoming O-235-L2C engine and equipped with a McCauley 1A103 propeller. The aircraft had undergone a 100-hour inspection on April 18, 2022. The operator was in compliance with the maintenance program approved by the Dirección General de Aeronáutica Civil (DGAC).