What happened
On May 16, 2022, a Cessna 182N, registration HK1464, was performing an air taxi operation in the Vaupés department of Colombia. After completing an initial flight from Villavicencio to Piracuara, the aircraft prepared for a second leg toward Mitú. During this second departure, the pilot utilized a takeoff position at the intersection of an old runway and a new, under-construction strip to avoid irregular surfaces. This maneuver resulted in only 540 meters of available runway.
Approximately ten minutes after departing Piracuara, local residents and National Army personnel observed black smoke rising from the jungle approximately two kilometers away from the flight path. Upon arrival at the scene, investigators found the aircraft had impacted the terrain and was partially consumed by fire. All four fatalities (the pilot and three passengers) were confirmed at the site.
The investigation
The GRIAA investigation examined the aircraft's impact dynamics, the condition of the airfield, and the flight's performance parameters. Investigators noted that the aircraft's left wing struck a tree approximately 30 meters from its base, causing a massive fuel spill that likely contributed to the subsequent fire. The investigation also noted that the engine had been removed from the wreckage by local residents before investigators could examine it.
Two primary hypotheses were evaluated: a loss of control or controlled flight into terrain (CFIT) due to the aircraft's inability to climb safely following a takeoff with insufficient runway, or an engine failure that necessitated an emergency landing attempt in the dense vegetation.
Findings
- The investigation could not definitively confirm or rule out an engine failure, though the aircraft's impact with the ground occurred at a low angle and low speed, likely without power.
- Insufficient runway length was a critical factor, as the 540-meter available distance was inadequate for a safe takeoff under the existing weight and performance conditions.
- The airfield at Piracuara lacked proper markings, had an irregular surface, and featured high obstacles at the runway end.
- There was a deficiency in risk analysis by both the operator and the crew regarding the decision to operate from a limited runway under high-weight conditions.
Safety action
The investigation issued several recommendations, including:
- Requiring the operator to provide enhanced training for crews regarding aircraft performance, weight and balance, and takeoff/climb limitations.
- Mandating more rigorous route and risk analyses for frequently used airfields.
- Urging the local authorities in Vaupés to improve the infrastructure of the Piracuara airfield, specifically regarding runway leveling, marking, and obstacle clearance.