Introduction
On 13 May 2002, at approximately 11:00 local time, a Piper PA-36-375 (registration EC-EEX) crashed during takeoff from Pista de las Brujas, located in the municipality of Puebla del Río, Seville province. The aircraft was engaged in aerial rice seeding operations, its second flight of the morning.
Accident Details
The accident occurred during the initial climb phase. According to the pilot's statement, during the takeoff roll at the end of the 900-meter runway, the aircraft lifted off with insufficient speed. Consequently, the aircraft stalled and fell into a rice field adjacent to the runway. The pilot shut down the engine upon realizing impact was inevitable, resulting in the engine being stopped at the moment of ground contact.
The aircraft was loaded with 500 kilograms of rice seed and 45 liters of fuel in each wing. Weather conditions were calm wind, temperature 25°C, visibility greater than 10 kilometers, and no clouds.
Damage to the aircraft was substantial, affecting the propeller, landing gear, right wing, fuselage, and engine mount. The pilot was uninjured.
Investigation
Investigators determined that the aircraft had a valid certificate of airworthiness, and the pilot held a valid commercial pilot license with appropriate ratings. No evidence of mechanical failure was found.
A weight and balance calculation, performed according to the aircraft's flight manual, showed that the aircraft's weight and center of gravity were within approved limits and well clear of the boundaries.
Conclusion
The most probable cause of the accident was that the takeoff was performed at a speed close to the aircraft's stall speed, resulting in a stall when a minimal increase in effective angle of attack occurred.