Accident Overview
On November 23, 2011, at approximately 2000 coordinated universal time, a Piper PA-36-300, Ecuadorian registration HC-BHJ, was substantially damaged during a forced landing in a banana plantation. The aircraft was operated by Aerorient Fumigacion Aerea. Visual meteorological conditions prevailed, and no flight plan was filed. The flight originated from Machala Airport (MCH) in Machala, Ecuador, at an undetermined time.
Pilot Report
The pilot reported performing his second swath run when he heard an explosion from the engine. He observed smoke and the engine began losing power. The pilot jettisoned his load of chemicals and executed a forced landing to the banana plantation. The pilot reported no injuries.
Investigation
The investigation is under the jurisdiction of the Government of Ecuador. Further information can be obtained from the Dirección General de Aviación Civil, Junta Investigadora de Accidentes de la República del Ecuador, located at Avenida Colón E5-56 y La Rábida, Edificio Ave María Torre Sur, Quito, República del Ecuador. Contact telephone: 593-02-223-8981. Website: www.dgac.gov.ec. This report is for informational purposes and only contains information released by the Government of Ecuador.