What happened
On the evening of March 19, 2015, a Beechcraft King Air B90, registration LV-CEO, crashed into the waters of Laguna del Sauce, Uruguay, shortly after departing from Laguna del Sauce International Airport (SULS). The aircraft was operating a flight from SULS to San Fernando Airport (SADF) in Argentina with two pilots and eight passengers on board.
Following takeoff from runway 01, the aircraft's emergency locator transmitter (ELT) signal was detected by the control tower. Shortly thereafter, a fire was observed on the surface of the lagoon approximately two kilometers northwest of the airport. Rescue vessels arrived at the scene within thirty minutes, but the aircraft was fully engulfed in flames, and no survivors were found. All ten fatalities were confirmed.
The investigation
The CIAIA investigation examined the aircraft' and crew's history, maintenance records, and the sequence of the takeoff. Investigators reviewed radar imagery, air traffic control communications, and maintenance logs from the period following a significant repair completed in early 2015. The investigation also analyzed the aircraft's configuration, specifically regarding the installation of new propellers and the electrical systems.
Technical inspections of the wreckage revealed that the electric elevator trim was found disconnected, though the cause for this disconnection remained undetermined. Furthermore, investigators noted discrepancies in the maintenance documentation regarding the propeller de-icer system and the use of outdated checklists that did not align with the specific equipment installed on the aircraft.
Findings
- The aircraft had recently undergone extensive repairs following a landing accident in 2013.
- The aircraft was operating with an overweight load, carrying eight passengers in a configuration designed for five.
- Maintenance records indicated that the propeller de-icer system's amperage readings were not compliant with the requirements established by the Supplemental Type Certificate (STC).
- The crew was utilizing outdated checklists that did not accurately reflect the aircraft's current equipment or operational requirements.
- There were significant electrical issues noted during engine tests earlier in the month, including tripped circuit breakers and equipment failures.