Incident Sequence
On final approach to Santa Elena Airfield in Entre Ríos, the crew heard a loud bang apparently originating from the undercarriage. The pilots initiated a go-around procedure. While climbing, they attempted to retract the landing gear but were unsuccessful. The flaps remained blocked at an inappropriate angle, and hydraulic pressure dropped.
Go-Around and Hydraulic Issues
Following the go-around, the decision was made to return to Paraná Airport. The aircraft experienced difficulties with the landing gear and flaps due to the hydraulic pressure loss. The crew managed to fly the aircraft to Paraná under these degraded conditions.
Landing and Aftermath
Upon landing at Paraná Airport, the landing gear collapsed. The aircraft slid on its belly and came to rest. Both pilots evacuated safely. The aircraft sustained damage beyond repair.
Investigation Findings
The official investigation determined that on approach to Santa Elena Airstrip, the crew failed to realize his altitude was too low when the undercarriage struck iron pipes stored in an area of tall grass short of the runway threshold.