What happened
On January 19, 2013, a Cessna R172K, registration HK2314, operated by Transportes Aéreos del Ariari (TARI S.A.S), was conducting a VFR flight from Mitú to Camanaos in the Guainía department of Colombia. During the flight, the pilot encountered heavy rain and turbulence. Simultaneously, the aircraft's GPS unit failed, and the pilot was unable to establish communication with the Mitú Tower.
Unable to locate the intended destination, the pilot continued flying for approximately 15 minutes until the rain subsided. After spotting a river and searching for a suitable landing site, the pilot identified a soccer field in the Berrocal indigenous community. During the approach, the engine began experiencing power fluctuations. Upon landing on the unprepared, gravel-covered surface, the aircraft began to skid. In an attempt to avoid indigenous dwellings, the pilot maneuvered the aircraft to the left, causing it to enter irregular, soft terrain. This resulted in the collapse of the nose gear and a sudden engine stoppage caused by the impact. There were no injuries and no fire.
The investigation
The GRIAA investigation examined the aircraft's mechanical condition, the pilot's flight planning, and meteorological data. A post-incident inspection of the Continental engine revealed that the internal components and accessories were in good working order. While the crankshaft showed a fracture, investigators determined this was caused by the impact of the landing rather than a pre-existing mechanical failure.
Satellite imagery and meteorological reports indicated that while there was moisture and cloud cover, there were no significant convective formations or severe weather systems in the area that would have prevented flight. The investigation also noted that the aircraft's navigation equipment, including VOR and ADF, was operational, and the pilot could have utilized these primary aids instead of relying on the failed GPS.
Findings
- The primary cause of the incident was the execution of a landing on an unprepared field, which led to the nose gear collapse and engine stoppage.
- The pilot deviated significantly from the flight plan, landing 52 nautical miles away from the intended destination.
- The pilot relied on a secondary GPS device for primary navigation rather than utilizing the aircraft's certified radio navigation aids (VOR/ADF).
- There were failures in flight supervision and planning by the operator regarding route adherence and itinerary monitoring.
Safety action
- To TARI S.A.S: The company should implement stricter procedures for the supervision and monitoring of flight itineraries and crew performance. Additionally, the operator must reinforce training regarding VFR minimums and the mandatory reporting of adverse meteorological conditions.
- To the Aeronautical Authority: The authority should ensure effective follow-up on the safety recommendations arising from this investigation.