What happened
On May 5, 2018, a Cessna A188-B, registration HK 1741, was conducting a flight for pilot familiarization near Buritaca, Magdalena. The aircraft, operated by Aero Sanidad Agrícola S.A.S., was performing a low-altitude reconnaissance of local plots to prepare for future agricultural spraying operations.
While flying at a very low altitude over the Bonanza plot, the pilot encountered a flock of birds. In an attempt to avoid the birds, the pilot performed an evasive maneuver. During this maneuver, the pilot was also momentarily blinded by direct sunlight. These actions caused the aircraft to strike a low-voltage power line situated approximately 15 meters above the ground. The impact caused the cable to break and fall onto a boat canopy on the Buriticá River, resulting in a local power outage. The aircraft's wire cutter functioned as intended, and the pilot was able to land safely at La Diva airfield without further incident.
While the pilot remained uninjured, a person on the ground came into contact with the energized cable attached to a utility pole. This individual suffered serious injuries, including loss of consciousness and a period in intensive care due to cardiac arrhythmia risks.
The investigation
The GRIAA investigation examined the flight history, maintenance records, and the pilot's qualifications. The investigation established that the pilot was experienced, with over 1,000 total flight hours, and held a valid commercial license. The aircraft was found to be airworthy and properly maintained.
Investigators also looked into the organizational aspects of the operator. It was noted that the company failed to notify the accident investigation authority immediately following the event, only reporting the occurrence three months later after being prompted by the Civil Aviation Authority.
Findings
- The primary cause of the accident was the pilot's failure to maintain a safe altitude during a visual reconnaissance flight, which prevented sufficient separation from ground obstacles and limited the margin for maneuvering.
- Inadequate flight planning by both the pilot and the operator, as the flight plan did not specify safe altitudes or identify known obstacles in the area.
- An improper evasive maneuver used to avoid birds, which dangerously reduced the aircraft's height and led to the strike.
- The operator's failure to establish clear procedures for risk assessment and obstacle identification during reconnaissance flights.