What happened
On May 29, 2016, at approximately 11:00 local time, a Cessna A188B, registration HK2830, was performing aerial spraying operations over oil palm plantations in Puerto Wilches, Santander. The aircraft, operated by AEROPENORT S.A.S., had been conducting agricultural work after departing from the Aguas Claras strip.
After completing a second spray pass, the pilot attempted an ascending left turn to reposition the aircraft for the next pass. During this maneuver, the aircraft experienced an aerodynamic stall at low altitude and low airspeed. This loss of control caused the aircraft to impact a building located within the plantation in a near-vertical descent, landing in an inverted position. The impact caused significant structural damage to the engine, propeller, fuselage, and wings. The pilot, the sole occupant, sustained minor injuries and was able to evacuate the aircraft on his own. There was no post-impact fire.
The investigation
The GRIAA investigation examined the flight history, the mechanical condition of the aircraft, and the pilot's operational background. The investigation confirmed that the aircraft was airworthy and had undergone its 100-hour service inspection shortly before the accident. The engine and propeller were found to be in normal working condition prior to the impact.
Investigators also reviewed the operator's organizational structure, noting that while the company had a plan for implementing a Safety Management System (SMS), it had not yet received formal approval from the Colombian Civil Aviation Authority at the time of the accident. The investigation also looked into the pilot's experience, noting he was a qualified commercial pilot with specific training in agricultural aviation.
Findings
- The primary cause of the accident was a pilot error of decision, specifically the execution of an inappropriate flight technique during a turn.
- The pilot performed an excessive bank angle at a low airspeed and low altitude, which led to a loss of aerodynamic lift.
- The aircraft's impact with the building resulted in the separation of the engine and propeller from the engine mount and significant structural failure of the airframe.
- Organizational deficiencies were identified, as the operator lacked an approved Safety Management System (SMS) and a dedicated Safety Department at the time of the event.