What happened
On March 6, 2025, a Piper PA25-235 performing agricultural spraying operations crashed near Guichón, Paysandú, Uruguay. The aircraft was engaged in applying insecticide and fungicide to soybean fields. Prior to the accident, the aircraft had been operating for several hours without incident. After refueling with approximately 125 liters of fuel and 320 liters of insecticide, the pilot departed from a temporary operational area to resume spraying.
During a short application pass, the pilot executed a left turn, during which the aircraft experienced a loss of lift. The pilot managed to level the aircraft and fly in a straight line, momentarily recovering stability. However, upon attempting a subsequent right turn to resume the application pattern, the aircraft suffered a second, unrecoverable loss of lift. The aircraft struck the ground, impacting a fence post and sliding across the field, which caused the aircraft to spin 180 degrees from its original flight path. The pilot escaped the wreckage uninjured.
The investigation
The CIAIA investigation examined the aircraft's mechanical condition, the pilot's credentials, and the operational parameters of the flight. Investigators found that the engine and flight controls were functioning normally prior to the impact. The aircraft's airworthiness certificate was valid, and the pilot held a valid commercial license with appropriate ratings for agricultural work.
Technical analysis focused on the aircraft's weight and balance. Investigators calculated the aircraft's state at the time of takeoff, accounting for the pilot, fuel, and the heavy load of liquid chemical payload. The investigation also reviewed the environmental conditions, noting that while weather visibility was good, the potential for turbulence from nearby wooded areas could have played a role.
Findings
- The aircraft was operating with a center of gravity outside of the manufacturer's allowable limits due to the heavy weight of the chemical payload.
- The takeoff weight was near the maximum allowable takeoff weight (MTOW) of 2,900 lbs.
- The impact caused substantial damage to the Piper PA25-235, including structural damage to the wings, horizontal stabilizers, and landing gear, as well as damage to the spraying equipment.
- Environmental factors, such as potential turbulence from nearby trees, may have contributed to the loss of lift during maneuvers.
Safety action
- It is recommended that the civil aviation authority integrate these findings into the oversight of the certified operator to monitor operational standards.
- The authority should consider these findings in the management of the operator's safety management system (SMS) to ensure compliance with manufacturer-defined operational parameters.