What happened
On November 8, 2025, at approximately 20:38 UTC, a Piper PA25-235, registration LV-MDR, was engaged in an agricultural flight in a rural area of Los Toldos, Buenos Aires. During the initial climb phase following takeoff from a grass strip, the aircraft's engine ceased operation. Following the loss of power, the aircraft impacted the terrain with a low impact angle and a nose-level attitude. The aircraft sustained substantial damage, but the pilot escaped the wreckage without injuries.
The investigation
The Argentine Transportation Safety Board (JST) conducted a preliminary investigation into the event. The inquiry focused on the aircraft's powerplant system and the circumstances surrounding the takeoff. Investigators examined the engine, a Lycoming 540 family model, and the propeller assembly. The investigation also reviewed the flight phase, the operational context of the agricultural mission, and the maintenance status of the aircraft, which was noted to have current documentation and a valid airworthiness certificate.