What happened
On August 7, 2007, at approximately 10:30 local time, two Piper PA-36-285 aircraft were engaged in aerial spraying operations over rice fields in Santa Amalia, Badajoz. The aircraft, registered as EC-CUD (operated by Airalt Trabajos Aéreos) and EC-EKR (operated by Trabajos Aére éreos Espejo), were performing routine agricultural cycles near two separate, unpaved landing strips located close to one another.
At the time of the collision, the pilot of EC-CUD was returning to the landing strip after completing a spraying cycle. Simultaneously, the pilot of EC-EKR had just departed from their base to begin a new mission. The two aircraft collided in flight approximately 1,000 meters west of the operational strips. The impact, which occurred at a low altitude, involved the propeller of EC-EKR striking the left wing of EC-CUD. The collision caused the EC-CUD to break apart, with its engine and wings separating from the fuselage; a fire broke out in the wings due to ruptured fuel tanks. The pilot of EC-CUD sustained fatal injuries, while the pilot of EC-EKR suffered serious injuries, including multiple vertebral fractures and a punctured lung.
The investigation
The investigation examined the flight paths, the aircraft damage, and the operational procedures of both companies. Investigators noted that the two landing strips were nearly parallel, with only 100 meters between their axes. The investigation also reviewed the maintenance records, which were found to be in compliance, and the pilots' licenses and medical certificates, which were all valid at the time of the accident.
Analysis of the wreckage suggested the collision occurred at an angle of approximately 90 degrees. The investigation also looked into the lack of communication between the two operators. It was found that while the pilots had a basic agreement regarding takeoff and landing directions, there was no formal coordination for simultaneous operations in the same area. Furthermore, neither aircraft was equipped with radio communication equipment.
Findings
- The primary cause of the accident was that the pilots failed to detect the other aircraft or detected it too late to avoid the collision, likely because their attention was focused on other flight tasks.
- There was a lack of coordination between the two operators working simultaneously in the same geographic area.
- The aircraft were not equipped with radio communication systems, which prevented essential contact during the approach and departure phases.
- Operational manuals for the companies did not include specific procedures for managing simultaneous operations with different operators in the same vicinity.