What happened
On June 30, 2021, a Cessna A188A, registration HK1477, was performing aerial spraying operations over rice fields in the municipality of Paz de Ariporo, Casanare. The aircraft departed from Zamar airstrip to treat 20 hectares of crops at the La Reforma farm.
During the mission, the pilot executed a series of "carousel" passes. While performing a 90-to-270-degree turn maneuver to return to a specific section of the field, the aircraft lost altitude and struck the terrain. The impact caused substantial structural damage to the aircraft, including the separation of the engine and propeller, and significant damage to the cockpit and wing structures. The pilot, who was the sole occupant, sustained fatal injuries and passed away hours after being transported to a medical center.
The investigation
The investigation conducted by the DIACC established that the aircraft was airworthy and had been maintained according to manufacturer specifications. The engine was found to be producing power at the time of the accident, and the aircraft's weight and balance were within operational limits. The pilot was found to be technically proficient, with a valid commercial license and up-to-date training in agricultural aviation.
Atmospheric analysis revealed that the area was experiencing low-level wind shear (LLWS) from the surface up to 487 feet AGL, along with a high probability of clear air turbulence (CAT) in the surface layer. The investigation also noted a discrepancy in the company's maintenance records regarding a specific engine component serial number, though this was not a factor in the crash.
Findings
- The primary cause of the accident was loss of control in flight resulting from a low-altitude turn that likely exceeded the aircraft's aerodynamic limits, leading to an aerodynamic stall.
- The occurrence was exacerbated by environmental factors, specifically the presence of low-level wind shear and clear air turbulence during the low-altitude maneuvers.