What happened
On September 9, 2024, at approximately 15:30 local time, a Cessna 172N was performing a traffic pattern for landing at Aucó Aerodrome (SCIL) in the Coquimbo Region of Chile. During the maneuver, the aircraft's right wing struck overhead electrical cables. The impact caused damage to the aircraft's right wing leading edge, the propeller cone, and the engine exhaust. The pilot, a commercial pilot, was the sole occupant of the aircraft and escaped the incident without any injuries.
The investigation
DGAC Chile investigators examined the aircraft at a hangar within the aerodrome. The inspection confirmed damage to the leading edge of the right wing, the propeller cone, and the engine exhaust resulting from the contact with the power lines. The investigation verified that the aircraft's documentation, including the Certificate of Registration and Certificate of Airworthiness, were valid and on board. Fuel samples taken from both tanks showed no signs of water or sediment, and the fuel type was consistent with the manufacturer's recommendations. Additionally, the aircraft's weight was within permissible limits, and the operator held a valid Air Operator Certificate (AOC). Meteorological conditions at the time of the event were reported as suitable for Visual Meteorological Conditions (VMC).
Findings
- The primary cause of the incident was the impact of the aircraft's right wing with electrical cables during the landing circuit.
- The aircraft sustained structural damage to the wing, propeller cone, and exhaust system.
- The pilot remained uninjured during the event.