What happened
On March 17, 2024, at 12:01 UTC, a Cessna U206G, registration YV2751, operated by Inversiones Moraima C.A., departed from Santa Elena de Uairén Airport (SVSE) for Uriman Aerodrome (SVUM) in Bolívar State, Venezuela. The aircraft was carrying one pilot with a maximum takeoff weight of 1,633 kg.
During the initial climb after departing from runway 29, the pilot noticed the aircraft losing airspeed while attempting to maintain altitude. Upon verifying engine parameters, the pilot identified a loss of engine power. Following the established Quick Reference Handbook (QRH) procedures, the pilot notified the control tower of the emergency and requested to return to the departure airport for an approach on runway 11.
While attempting the return, the pilot reported continued power loss and determined that the aircraft would be unable to reach the authorized runway. Consequently, the pilot performed an emergency landing approximately two miles before reaching runway 11. The aircraft sustained substantial damage, though the pilot remained uninjured.
The investigation
The investigation was conducted by the Venezuelan JIAAC to analyze the technical, operational, and documentary aspects of the occurrence. Investigators reviewed the aircraft's airworthiness certificate, radio station license, insurance policy, and maintenance records.
As part of the process, authorities requested documentation from the certified maintenance organization, Taller Aeronáutico La Montaña, C.A., including component control logs and recent work orders. The investigation also involved analyzing the flight trajectory and the environmental conditions, which were reported as Visual Meteorological Conditions (VMC) with calm winds and unlimited visibility.