What happened
On February 5, 2023, at approximately 13:30 UTC, a Thrush S2R-H80, registration LV-HIK, was performing agricultural spraying operations at Estancia La Aurora in the province of San Luis. After completing work on an initial field, the pilot transitioned to a second lot to continue the application process.
As the aircraft began a new pass, the propeller struck a six-meter-tall iron column. The impact caused immediate damage to the propeller and engine, and a fuel hose ruptured, spraying fuel across the windshield. Realizing the engine power had diminished and that a return to the departure airfield was impossible, the pilot executed an emergency landing within the field. The aircraft sustained significant damage to the propeller, engine, landing gear, and the lower fuselage. The pilot exited the aircraft without injury.
The investigation
The investigation examined the flight path using data from a satellite-based GPS tracking system. While the pilot had performed a reconnaissance flight for the first field, the records indicated that no such reconnaissance flight was conducted for the second field where the accident occurred.
Investigators analyzed the physical evidence at the scene, including the iron column, which was unpainted and rusted, making it difficult to distinguish from the surrounding environment. The investigation also reviewed the aircraft's maintenance records, which showed the plane was compliant with all regulations, and examined the pilot's credentials, noting significant experience in agricultural aviation. The investigation confirmed that the engine failure was a direct consequence of the physical impact with the structure rather than a pre-existing mechanical defect.
Findings
- The aircraft struck a metal column during the start of a spraying pass.
- The pilot had no prior information regarding the presence of the obstacle.
- The iron column was difficult to see because its rusted color blended with the environment.
- The absence of a reconnaissance flight for the second field prevented the pilot from identifying the hazard before beginning the low-altitude maneuvers.
Safety action
- The investigation highlights the critical importance of conducting reconnaissance flights to identify physical hazards in the environment during agricultural spraying operations to mitigate the inherent risks of low-altitude flight.