What happened
On June 28, 2021, at approximately 13:10 local time, a Cessna A188B, registration HK2021, was performing agricultural spraying operations near San Luis de Palenque, Casanare. After completing several successful flights, the aircraft was preparing for a fifth mission, carrying 110 gallons of chemical product and 30 gallons of fuel.
During the takeoff roll on runway 11, the pilot began rotating the aircraft before reaching the required rotation speed. While the aircraft initially achieved flight through ground effect, it was unable to maintain altitude as it climbed out of the ground effect zone. In an attempt to reduce weight and recover the aircraft, the pilot performed an emergency discharge of the chemical payload. Despite this effort, the aircraft lost lift, struck a perimeter fence, and the right wingtip impacted the terrain. The aircraft came to a stop 157 meters from the runway threshold. The pilot, the sole occupant, evacuated the aircraft uninjured.
The investigation
The investigation conducted by the DIACC examined the aircraft's performance, the pilot's techniques, and the operational planning of the operator. Investigators analyzed the aircraft's weight and balance, which were within manufacturer limits, and confirmed that the engine and airframe were in airworthy condition.
Technical analysis focused on the aerodynamic factors during the takeoff roll, specifically the impact of high density altitude, ambient temperatures of approximately 35°C, and the use of flaps. The investigation also reviewed the operator's risk management processes and the lack of established procedures for analyzing runway characteristics at the unpaved site.