What happened
On June 30, 2025, at approximately 06:00 local time, an AT-301 agricultural aircraft, registration HK4198, was conducting aerial spraying operations near the La Lucha aerodrome in the Zona Bananera region of Magdalena, Colombia. Following a successful pre-flight inspection and the loading of 220 gallons of spray product and 60 gallons of fuel, the aircraft departed from runway 14.
Approximately 15 seconds after takeoff, the pilot reported hearing a loud noise from the engine accompanied by a sudden loss of power. The pilot immediately initiated emergency procedures, which included jettisoning the spray product, adjusting the manifold and fuel mixture, and shutting off the magnetos, battery, and alternator. Due to the low altitude of the aircraft, the pilot was unable to transmit an emergency radio call. During the descent, the pilot attempted to maneuver around obstacles but encountered electrical lines that could not be avoided. The aircraft subsequently impacted a banana plantation at Finca Burdeos. The pilot evacuated the aircraft without injuries.
The investigation
The technical investigation conducted by the DIACC examined the crash site, an irregular terrain within a private property. Physical inspection of the AT-301 revealed substantial damage, including a dented left wingtip and leading edge, damaged flaps and left aileron, a detached wingtip, and impact damage to the landing gear and engine. The propeller was also found with one bent blade.
The investigation team has released the aircraft for transport to the operator's facilities to allow for a more detailed analysis. The engine and propeller have been taken into custody for specialized inspection. Ongoing investigative tasks include evaluating the aircraft's maintenance history, analyzing human factors, and conducting a detailed examination of the power plant.