Background
The ultralight vehicle, a Minimax 1550 with registration CX-JLI-X, was built by its owner from scratch using plans acquired in mid-2001. Construction was completed in April 2010, and the aircraft received a Special Airworthiness Certificate with Experimental category, authorized for test flights near Canelones Aerodrome. On 31 December 2011, the aircraft was involved in an accident at the same aerodrome, which was not reported to aviation authorities. The owner subsequently rebuilt the aircraft using undamaged parts.
Inspection and Previous Events
In mid-January 2018, an inspection by the DINACIA Engineering and Service Difficulties Office found several discrepancies: ailerons stuck when moved left, elevator stuck when the control stick was fully forward, a control cable broke, and the propeller always remained in a vertical position. The pilot in command, who also served as an inspector pilot and head of the DINACIA Aeronautical Personnel Department, corrected these issues by replacing all flight control cables.
On 27 January 2018, during a ground operation on runway 03/21, the pilot lost control, causing the aircraft to veer right and impact a perimeter fence. The propeller was damaged, and the tail skid wheel was replaced. The pilot informed the Aeroclub president that no injuries occurred and that the damage was limited to the propeller, and that he had notified authorities. However, the CIAIA did not investigate.
Accident Sequence
On 3 February 2018, at approximately 09:30 local time, after performing pre-flight checks, the pilot started the engine and taxied to runway 09/27. He began a takeoff run from threshold 09. According to radio transmissions on 123.4 MHz, the owner of the ultralight encouraged the pilot, saying, "It's yours, that's yours… Come on, give it… We're watching you down there." The aircraft lifted off but then lost speed while executing a left turn, subsequently impacting the ground violently near threshold 21 of runway 03/21.
Injuries and Damage
The pilot sustained serious injuries and was airlifted by a Uruguayan Air Force helicopter to a medical center in Montevideo. The ultralight was destroyed. There was no post-impact fire.
Weather
According to the pilot, weather conditions were optimal for the flight.