Student Pilot Killed in Aerodynamic Stall After Takeoff at Yariguíes Aerodrome

Casualties unknown • Barrancabermeja, CO

A student pilot lost control of a Cessna R172K during a low-altitude turn shortly after takeoff, resulting in a fatal impact near Barrancabermeja, Colombia.

What happened

On October 19, 2023, at approximately 13:38 local time, a Cessna R172K, registration HK2465G, crashed near the Yariguíes Aerodrome in Barrancabermeja, Colombia. The aircraft was performing a solo instructional flight as part of a training program.

After departing from runway 04, the pilot crossed the threshold of runway 22 and requested an immediate return to the station. While executing a right-hand turn at a low altitude, the aircraft experienced a rapid loss of altitude and entered a spin, ultimately impacting the terrain. The single occupant, a student pilot, sustained fatal injuries due to deceleration trauma. The aircraft suffered significant structural damage, including the destruction of the forward fuselage and cockpit area.

The investigation

The investigation conducted by the DIACC examined several hypotheses, including engine failure, weight and balance issues, and human factors. Technical inspections of the engine, propeller, and governor showed no internal anomalies that would have prevented power production. The propeller blades showed significant rotational energy at the time of impact, suggesting the engine was producing power.

CCTV footage from the aerodrome confirmed the aircraft's takeoff sequence, showing a rotation after crossing taxiway C, followed by a limited climb gradient and the subsequent right-hand turn that led to the loss of altitude. While the investigation noted that the pilot's previous training records included observations regarding situational awareness and adherence to standard operating procedures, these were treated as operational context rather than a direct cause.

Findings

  • The primary cause of the accident was an aerodynamic stall occurring during the initial climb phase.
  • The pilot executed a low-altitude turn with a reduced energy margin.
  • An increase in the load factor, combined with a likely positive pitch attitude, increased the angle of attack beyond its critical value.
  • The aircraft lacked sufficient altitude to execute an effective recovery after the loss of lift and control.
  • The aircraft was operating within its weight and balance envelope, and the engine was functioning normally.

Probable cause

The accident was caused by an aerodynamic stall during a low-altitude turn following takeoff, where an increased load factor and high angle of attack led to a loss of control and subsequent impact with the ground.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 2023-10-19 R172K accident near Barrancabermeja, CO?

A student pilot lost control of a Cessna R172K during a low-altitude turn shortly after takeoff, resulting in a fatal impact near Barrancabermeja, Colombia.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 2023-10-19 involved a R172K, registration HK2465, at Barrancabermeja, CO.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The accident was caused by an aerodynamic stall during a low-altitude turn following takeoff, where an increased load factor and high angle of attack led to a loss of control and subsequent impact with the ground.

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