Synopsis
On 3 March 2023, a Cessna 172G aircraft, registration OB-1100, operated by Servicios Aéreos Ruiz E.I.R.L., was involved in an accident during an emergency landing at the Jeberos landing strip in Loreto, Peru. The aircraft sustained serious damage and the pilot suffered apparently minor injuries.
Flight History
The aircraft was scheduled to fly from San Lorenzo aerodrome to the community of Bellavista to pick up two passengers, then continue to Yurimaguas Airport. The pilot was the sole occupant. Departure occurred at 09:46 local time. After reaching a cruising altitude of 1,500 feet, approximately 13 nautical miles from San Lorenzo, the pilot experienced a sudden drop in engine RPM and a change in engine sound. With favorable weather, the pilot decided to proceed to the Jeberos landing strip for an emergency landing. Fuel flow remained stable and the fuel selector was on both tanks, with reduced engine power but sufficient indicated airspeed. The pilot broadcast on frequency 123.45 that he would perform an emergency landing at Jeberos.
Shortly thereafter, oil droplets appeared on the windshield, gradually increasing until the windshield was completely covered in oil. Oil pressure dropped below 30 psi. The pilot followed the GPS heading toward Jeberos. At about 5 nautical miles from threshold 11, he began a descent. Instruments then indicated less than 1,800 rpm, less than 20 psi oil pressure, and less than 20 inches of manifold pressure.
Emergency Landing and Excursion
With the windshield fully obscured by oil, the pilot used only the left window for visibility. At approximately 2 nautical miles, he aligned the aircraft with the runway but could not see forward. The pilot opened the left door to prevent it from jamming upon landing. After touchdown, the aircraft lacked directional control. During its rollout, it struck bushes and veered left, resulting in a runway excursion. The aircraft then nosed over (inverted) about 100 meters from threshold 11.
Injuries and Damage
The pilot, the only person on board, exited the aircraft unaided and sustained apparently minor injuries. No passengers or other persons were involved. The aircraft suffered serious structural damage. No damage to the ecosystem or third parties was reported.
Investigation Findings
The Peruvian Commission for the Investigation of Aviation Accidents (CIAA) determined that the probable cause was a runway excursion during the emergency landing due to the pilot's lack of directional visibility caused by oil on the forward windshield, resulting from an oil leak and loss of power in flight. Operational safety recommendations were communicated to the DGAC.