What happened
On December 13, 2024, at approximately 10:15 local time, an experimental Christen Eagle II crashed into the Huechún Reservoir in the commune of Tiltil, Metropolitan Region. The aircraft had departed from the La Victoria de Chacabuco Aerodrome (SCVH) with the intention of performing aerobatic maneuvers in the vicinity of the reservoir.
During the flight, the aircraft impacted the surface of the reservoir in an inverted position. The impact occurred in an area containing water and tailings material, leaving the aircraft partially buried. The crash resulted in one fatality, the pilot on board, and extensive damage to the airframe, including the fuselage, wings, landing gear, engine, and propeller.
The investigation
DGAC Chile investigators examined the wreckage at the crash site and noted significant structural deformation and material loss across the aircraft. The investigation confirmed that the aircraft was utilizing 100LL fuel, which is the type recommended by the manufacturer for the Lycoming engine installed in the aircraft.
Meteorological reports from witnesses indicated that weather conditions at the time of the accident were favorable, characterized by clear skies and unlimited visibility. Because the aircraft was registered as an experimental E-LSA, it was not required to be equipped with flight data or cockpit voice recorders. The investigation is currently awaiting the results of a technical inspection of the engine, which has been sent to the manufacturer abroad, to further determine the sequence of events.