What happened
On April 11, 2024, at approximately 06:32 local time, a Cessna A188B, registration HK 2065, was performing the second of three scheduled aerial spraying missions near the La Amalia Aerodrome in Zona Bananera, Colombia. The aircraft was operating under Visual Flight Rules (VFR) for agricultural purposes, transporting 32 gallons of fuel and 180 gallons of agricultural product.
During a high-performance takeoff from runway 16, the pilot experienced a sudden loss of engine power accompanied by significant airframe vibration and a loss of altitude. The aircraft subsequently struck the canopy of a tree and then collided with a utility cable with the left main landing gear. This impact caused a pivoting effect, leading to a loss of control and a 180-degree rotation before the aircraft struck the ground. A post-impact fire ensued, causing substantial damage to the airframe. The pilot successfully evacuated the aircraft with minor injuries, including contusions and small lacerations.
The investigation
The investigation conducted by the Colombian accident investigation authority (DIACC) examined the engine, propeller, and operational procedures. While the engine showed evidence of high-temperature exposure and melting due to the post-impact fire, investigators could not definitively determine the exact origin of the power loss. However, inspections of the propeller indicated low rotational energy and low power at the moment of impact.
Investigators also reviewed the pilot's flight profiles and found significant differences in climb rates and efficiency compared to previous flights by other pilots using the same aircraft. Furthermore, the investigation identified the use of improper takeoff references, such as relying on GPS speed rather than the aircraft's airspeed indicator and using visual runway markers like flags.
Findings
- The primary cause of the accident was a collision with a tree resulting from a degradation in aircraft performance, likely due to an undetermined engine power loss or a loss of lift caused by inadequate takeoff technique during a high-performance departure.
- The operator lacked clear risk analysis and standardized procedures for performing high-weight takeoffs on a runway with significant surrounding obstacles.
- There was a lack of specialized training for crews regarding high-performance takeoffs and operating under restrictive conditions, which hindered the pilot's ability to manage the emergency.
- Organizational deficiencies were noted, including a lack of coordination between the operator's SMS director and their outsourced safety management provider.