Engine failure leads to emergency landing in Mendoza, Argentina

Casualties unknown • Aeroclub Rivadavia (Mendoza), AR

An experimental ultralight aircraft experienced a complete engine failure during cruise flight, resulting in an emergency landing in a field near Rivadavia.

What happened

On September 30, 2023, at approximately 21:45 UTC, a BA-5 GURÍ ultralight aircraft, registration LV-UX079, experienced a significant mechanical failure during a recreational flight. The aircraft was operating in the cruise phase of its flight, traveling from Aeroclub Rivadavia to the same destination in the Mendoza province. While in transit, the engine ceased functioning, forcing the pilot to perform an emergency landing in a field located approximately 1,300 meters west of the Rivadavia Aeroclub.

During the landing sequence, the aircraft sustained minor damage. There were no fatalities or serious injuries reported, though one person on board sustained minor injuries.

The investigation

The Dirección Nacional de Investigación de Sucesos Aeronáumenticos (DNISAE) conducted a documentary investigation into the event. The inquiry focused on the failure of the engine group and the circumstances surrounding the loss of power during the cruise phase. Following a review of the available evidence and the findings of the investigator, the authorities determined that the incident did not yield information significant enough to necessitate new safety improvements for the State's operational security.

Probable cause

The engine of the ultralight aircraft stopped functioning during the cruise phase of flight, leading to an unplanned emergency landing.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 2023-09-30 BA-5 GURI Viajero accident near Aeroclub Rivadavia (Mendoza), AR?

An experimental ultralight aircraft experienced a complete engine failure during cruise flight, resulting in an emergency landing in a field near Rivadavia.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 2023-09-30 involved a BA-5 GURI Viajero, registration LV-UX079, operated by Aviación General, at Aeroclub Rivadavia (Mendoza), AR.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The engine of the ultralight aircraft stopped functioning during the cruise phase of flight, leading to an unplanned emergency landing.

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