What happened
On July 2, 2016, at approximately 15:40 local time, a Cessna A188, registration HK-1398, crashed into an electrical tower in the municipality of Puerto López, Meta, Colombia. The aircraft, operated by Comercializadora ECO LTDA, was performing specialized aerial spraying operations (fumigation) over rice crops.
After completing its scheduled spraying tasks, the aircraft was on a return flight to the Neiva York landing strip. During the transit, the aircraft struck the upper section of an electrical tower. The impact caused the right wing section to break away and ruptured the fuel tank, leading to a loss of control. The aircraft subsequently struck the ground in an inverted position. A post-impact fire, fueled by spilled aviation gasoline, consumed much of the airframe. The pilot was killed instantly upon impact.
The investigation
The GRIAA investigation examined the flight history, aircraft maintenance records, and the physical wreckage. The investigation confirmed that the pilot held a valid commercial license and medical certificate. The Cessuna A188 was found to be airworthy, with all maintenance requirements up to date, including a 50-hour service performed shortly before the accident.
Investigators analyzed the environmental conditions and determined that the weather was within visual flight rules (VFR) limits and that solar glare was not a contributing factor. The inspection of the engine and propeller revealed that the damage to the components was consistent with the forces of the impact with the terrain. The investigation also noted that the electrical tower involved in the collision lacked any visible markings or warning lights to alert pilots to its presence.