What happened
On December 31, 2022, at approximately 19:00 local time, an Air Tractor AT802 was engaged in aerial firefighting operations near Galvarino, Chile. The aircraft, which carried Spanish registration, was operating under a Chilean Air Operator Certificate (AOC) in coordination with the National Forestry Corporation (CONAF).
After departing from Aeródromo Los Confines to reload water at Aeródromo Traiguén, the aircraft returned to a fire site located 6.5 km northwest of Galvar and performed a water drop. Immediately following the release of the payload, the aircraft lost control and struck the terrain, subsequently catching fire. The pilot was killed in the accident, and the aircraft was destroyed.
The investigation
DGAC Chile conducted an investigation into the crash, examining the aircraft's maintenance history, the pilot's credentials, and the flight dynamics during the water drop. The investigation included technical inspections of the Pratt & Whitney PT6A-67F engine and the Hartzell propeller by the original manufacturers.
Investigators analyzed the flight path, noting that the aircraft was at an altitude of approximately 63 meters during the drop, which was above the minimum required height. The investigation also reviewed the operator's manual, which specifies recommended speeds for water release, and examined the aircraft's weight and balance following the sudden loss of mass during the drop.
Findings
- The aircraft was operating within its airworthiness requirements and the pilot held a valid commercial license.
- The engine and propeller were found to be functioning normally and were at high power at the moment of impact.
- The sudden reduction in weight following the water release caused the aircraft's nose to pitch up, leading to a significant loss of airspeed.
- The aircraft's speed during the drop was approximately 115 mph, which was below the recommended speed range of 125 to 140 mph specified in the operator's manual.
- In an attempt to recover control, the pilot applied power, which induced a significant engine torque effect, causing the aircraft to roll sharply to the left.
- The aircraft lost lift and impacted the ground with the wingtip first.