What happened
On June 26, 2003, at 12:02 local time, an Air Tractor AT-802, registration EC-GGY, crashed into the terrain near the Coll de Ordigues in the Sierra de Busa, Navés (Lleida). The aircraft, operated by Avialsa T-35, S. L., was performing a forest surveillance mission under the direction of the Catalonia Emergency Coordination Center (CECAT). The flight had departed from Sabadell Airport approximately 25 minutes prior to the accident.
As the aircraft approached steep mountainous terrain, the pilot attempted an evasive maneuver to avoid an obstacle. During this sequence, the aircraft performed a sharp left turn and released its water payload, likely in an attempt to reduce weight and improve climb performance. Despite these efforts, the aircraft struck the mountainside at a high bank angle, leading to a post-impact fire that destroyed the aircraft and caused the fatalities of both crew members.
The investigation
The CIAIAC investigation examined the aircraft's flight path using onboard positioning data, which showed a constant heading and speed until the final minute of flight. The data revealed that the aircraft's heading changed from 338° to 315° during the final 30 seconds, accompanied by a decrease in airspeed from 136 to 108 knots. This indicated that the aircraft initiated a climb and a subsequent left turn.
Investigators also analyzed the engine and propeller. The examination of the Pratt & Whitney PT6A-67AG engine revealed that the damage was consistent with an impact while the engine was operating at a medium-to-high power setting. There was no evidence of engine failure or propeller feathering prior to the crash. Additionally, the investigation confirmed that the aircraft's weight was within permissible limits and that the maintenance records were up to date.
Findings
- The pilot attempted an evasive maneuver to avoid a mountain slope that was higher than the aircraft's flight altitude.
- The pilot likely released the water payload during the maneuver to decrease the aircraft's weight and increase its climb capability.
- The lack of sufficient space to complete a steep turn during the evasive maneuver was the primary cause of the impact.
- The aircraft struck the terrain with a high angle of bank.
- There were no indications of mechanical failure or pre-existing fires in the area.