What happened
On March 6, 2023, a Cessna A188B, registration HK2153, was conducting agricultural spraying operations near Ciénaga, Magdalena. The aircraft, operated by ASA S.A.S., had departed from La Amalia airfield to apply fungicide and fertilizer to banana crops at the Donama estate.
After completing four passes in a carousel pattern and discharging approximately 80 gallons of product, the pilot attempted a procedural turn to return to the field. The maneuver involved a left-hand climb toward a mountainous area at an altitude of approximately 100 feet. During the execution of a tight turn, the aircraft experienced a sudden loss of lift. Despite the pilot applying maximum power and activating the emergency discharge lever to reduce weight, the aircraft could not maintain altitude. The aircraft subsequently struck a mountain boundary at 495 feet MSL. The impact was at a low angle and low speed, allowing the pilot to escape the wreckage. However, a post-crash fire consumed approximately 90% of the aircraft structure.
The investigation
The investigation conducted by the DIACC established that the aircraft was airworthy and maintained according to manufacturer standards. The engine and flight controls showed no signs of mechanical failure prior to impact. The pilot was found to be technically proficient, with a valid commercial license and no evidence of fatigue or impairment. The aircraft was operating within its permitted weight and balance limits, and the weather conditions were clear with visual meteorological conditions (VFR).
Findings
- The primary cause of the accident was an aerodynamic stall caused by an excessive angle of attack during a steep turn at low altitude.
- The pilot made an improper decision by executing the turning maneuver over mountainous terrain, which deviated from the operator's established procedures that required turning in the opposite direction to avoid natural obstacles.