Cessna A188B Runway Excursion at Pompeya, Colombia (HK1766)

Incident Overview and Location On June 26, 2023, at approximately 09:30 local time, a Cessna A188B agricultural aircraft, registration HK1766, experienced a runway excursion at Pompeya, Meta, Colombia. The incident occurred during a takeoff roll from runway 04 at the aerodrome known as El Convento. The aircraft was operated by Fumigación Aérea de Oriente FARO S.A.S. for agricultural spraying operations. ## Flight Details and Sequence of Events The aircraft was loaded with 45 gallons of fuel and 100 gallons of fungicide. The pilot initiated the takeoff roll from runway 04 at approximately 09:25 local time. After the aircraft rotated, the pilot observed the airspeed indicator fluctuating between 60 and 65 mph. The pilot then aborted the takeoff by cutting power and mixture and applying the brakes. The aircraft traveled approximately 300 meters down the runway before leaving the surface and striking a fence located about 60 meters from the runway threshold. The aircraft came to rest approximately 70 meters from the threshold of runway 22. ## Injuries and Damage The sole occupant, the pilot, exited the aircraft under their own power and was uninjured. The aircraft sustained damage to the right wing, including leading edge damage and a broken wingtip. Two of the three propeller blades were bent at the tips, and the right main landing gear was bent. The lower right cowling also sustained minor impact damage. No other damage was reported. ## Investigation Findings The investigation determined that the probable causes of the incident were human factors and an incorrect decision. A contributing factor was identified in the operational procedures related to the interpretation of the airspeed indicator. The investigation found no evidence of mechanical failure in the aircraft, engine, braking system, or airspeed indicator that contributed to the incident. Meteorological conditions were visual meteorological conditions (VMC) and were not a contributing factor.