What happened
On October 13, 2020, a private Piper 28RT-201T, registration HK2335G, was performing a VFR flight from Santa Marta to Guaymaral. During the flight, the pilot declared a MAYDAY due to power loss. As the aircraft progressed toward the Ubaté region, the pilot reported dropping oil pressure and smoke inside the cabin. Shortly after passing Ubaté, the pilot reported a total engine failure. While attempting an emergency landing in an unprepared field, the aircraft struck trees before impacting the ground. The accident resulted in three fatalities among the occupants, while an infant on board sustained minor injuries.
The investigation
The GRIAA investigation focused on the mechanical failure of the Continental TSIO-360-F engine. Investigators examined the engine and propeller components, specifically looking for evidence of lubrication failure or internal damage. The analysis included reviewing the engine's lubrication system, the presence of detonation, and the sequence of events leading to the loss of control during the forced landing maneuver.