What happened
On February 5, 2026, a Cessna 172G, registration YV2385, departed from the Mariscal Sucre Flight School in Boca de Río, Aragua, bound for Barquisimeto. The flight, operated under Visual Flight Rules (VFR) with two crew members on board, proceeded normally until approximately 30 minutes into the flight near the Canoabo Valley.
During the flight, the engine began experiencing moderate to severe RPM fluctuations accompanied by loud detonations from the exhaust, after which the engine failed completely. The pilot attempted several restarts following established checklists but was unsuccessful. Due to the difficult terrain, the crew could not establish communication with Barquisimeto Approach Control. The pilot performed an emergency descent and identified a suitable landing site at Hacienda El Alto in Canoabo, Carabobo. During the forced landing, the aircraft traveled approximately 50 meters before the nose gear struck a depression in the uneven ground, causing the aircraft to lose stability and capsize onto its back. Both crew members were uninjured, though the aircraft sustained damage.
The investigation
The investigation examined the aircraft's maintenance history, engine condition, and cockpit instrumentation. Authorities reviewed documentation from the maintenance organization, Aerojet Services, C.A., and inspected the Teledyne Continental O-300-C engine. Physical inspections were conducted on the airframe, propeller, and engine components, including a borescope inspection of the fuel tanks.
Findings
The investigation revealed several critical discrepancies and mechanical issues:
- Engine and Fuel Systems: The fuel tanks showed signs of contamination and corrosion. The engine oil filter contained traces of metallic particles and plastic. Additionally, the air filter installed did not match the part number specified in the engine's parts catalog, and the intake manifold hoses were deteriorated and did not match the manufacturer's specifications.
- Mechanical Discrepancies: The engine's pushrod covers were made of plastic rather than the required metal, and traces of silicone were found on the valve pushrods. The crankshaft showed wear and scratches, with measurements exceeding manufacturer limits.
- Unrecorded Component Changes: There was no documented evidence or work orders for the replacement of the generator or the carburetor, as the serial numbers of the components installed during the accident did not match those recorded during the aircraft's most recent airworthiness certificate renewal.
- Instrumentation: The fuel quantity and ammeter indicators installed in the cockpit differed from the manufacturer's specifications.
- Airframe Damage: The landing caused significant damage, including a deformed propeller, a broken vertical stabilizer, a broken propeller hub, and structural damage to the left wing spar and rear fuselage.