Summary
On 8 March 2026, at approximately 16:19 UTC (10:19 local time), a Thrush S2R-T34 agricultural aircraft, registration HR-ARC, operated by Helicópteros del Norte S. de R.L., was involved in an accident during the return phase of an agricultural fumigation flight. The accident occurred in the sector Cruz de Valencia, Finca Ceibita Indiana, municipality of La Lima, department of Cortes, Honduras. The aircraft sustained total destruction and one fatality was recorded.
Aircraft Information
- Manufacturer: Thrush Aircraft
- Model: S2R-T34
- Registration: HR-ARC
- Serial Number: G6-131
- Year of Manufacture: 1995
- Engine: One Pratt & Whitney PT6A-41
- Maximum Takeoff Weight: 9,500 lbs
- Category: Agricultural fumigation
- Passenger Capacity: 1
- Airworthiness Certificate: AIR 024/2025
- Insurance: Valid through 19 March 2026 (Policy No. AVG$-2553, Seguros G&T, S.A.)
Flight Narrative
The aircraft was conducting an agricultural fumigation flight in the area. After completing the application operations, the pilot initiated the return flight to the base located at Aeródromo Campo 02, also in La Lima. The aircraft maintained a heading of 208° and an altitude of 100 meters above ground level (AGL). During the en route phase, the aircraft experienced a loss of altitude, leading to a descent. The first impact occurred with an obstacle (a tree) at approximately 10 meters above ground, followed by a final impact with terrain roughly 200 meters from the initial point of contact. The aircraft was totally destroyed.
Investigation Status
The Comisión Investigadora de Accidentes e Incidentes de Aviación (CIAIA) is conducting the investigation. As of the preliminary report, the investigation is in the phase of gathering background information and analyzing data to determine the probable cause and generate safety recommendations. The probable cause has not yet been determined.