Factual Information
On June 22, 2022, at approximately 15:15 local time (20:15 UTC), a Cessna A188B agricultural aircraft, registration HK2324, was involved in an accident during a spraying operation. The flight originated from Berástegui airstrip (OACI: SKBR) in Ciénaga de Oro, Córdoba, Colombia. The aircraft was loaded with 35 gallons of fuel and 150 gallons of chemical product for spraying a 20-hectare cornfield.
Sequence of Events
The pilot conducted several passes using a carousel technique with 90-270 degree turns. While nearing the end of the spraying run, the aircraft collided with a low-tension power line. The collision caused a loss of control, and the aircraft subsequently impacted the terrain in a level attitude. The pilot exited the aircraft unaided and was uninjured. No fire occurred. The accident happened during daylight in visual meteorological conditions (VMC).
Damage
The aircraft sustained substantial damage, including separation of the main landing gear structures, partial detachment of the engine mount, and deformation of the propeller blades with sudden stoppage. The left wing and spray nozzles were also damaged. The impact affected approximately 58 square meters of corn crop and broke a medium-tension power line consisting of two lines of 7,600 kVA.
Pilot Information
The pilot, aged 67, held a Commercial Pilot License (Airplane) issued in 1980 and an Airplane Flight Instructor License issued in 2012. He had completed an agricultural aviation course in 1984. His total flight time recorded by the aeronautical authority was 7,600:1 hours (as of 2012), with 2,400 hours on the Cessna A188B according to the operator. In the last 90 days, he had logged 44:54 hours, in the last 30 days 41:54 hours, in the last 3 days 4:48 hours, and in the last 24 hours 0:05 hours. His medical certificate was valid until November 10, 2022. His most recent check ride on the equipment was on July 8, 2021.
Investigation Findings
The investigation determined the probable causes of the accident were: collision of the aircraft with a power line during a low-altitude spraying maneuver, and overconfidence and inattention of the pilot in command, likely due to momentary focus on the GPS to prepare for the next pass. A contributing factor was weaknesses in the organization's risk management procedures for the development and execution of agricultural spraying flights.
Safety Recommendations
Three safety recommendations were issued: one to the air operator regarding operational procedures, and two to the Secretariat of Aeronautical Authority concerning risk management oversight.