What happened
On January 23, 2026, a Cessna 188 (A) agricultural aircraft, registered as LV-HKI, was engaged in low-altitude maneuvering over a cultivated field in Argentina. The aircraft was performing specialized aerial work when it struck the ground at an impact speed of approximately 65 knots. The aircraft sustained heavy damage, and the wreckage was located on a level, flat surface consisting of crops. The pilot, who was the sole occupant of the aircraft, sustained minor injuries and was able to escape the wreckage within one minute.
The investigation
The preliminary investigation established that the aircraft was operating under Visual Meteorological Conditions (VMC) in daylight. The aircraft, a 1969 model, was being operated by a private owner for agricultural purposes. Investigators examined the wreckage and determined that the aircraft struck the terrain with a nose-down pitch attitude while the wings remained level. The investigation also noted that the aircraft was equipped with a Continental IO-520 engine and a McCauley propeller, both of which were within their operational limits. The Emergency Locator Transmitter (ELT) was not carried on board the aircraft during the flight.
Findings
- The aircraft was performing low-altitude maneuvering during agricultural operations.
- The impact occurred with a nose-down pitch attitude.
- The aircraft struck a cultivated field at an intermediate speed of 65 knots.
- The pilot survived the impact with minor injuries.