What happened
On April 30, 2018, an Air Tractor AT-502 B, registration LV-CUH, was performing an aerial application mission in Piquete Cavado, Salta, when it experienced a runway excursion during takeoff. While beginning its takeoff roll, the aircraft drifted to the left, leaving the prepared surface and entering a cornfield. The aircraft continued on this trajectory until it collided with a line of trees approximately 10 meters in height. The pilot was able to exit the aircraft unassisted and sustained no injuries.
The investigation
Investigators examined the engine, propeller, and flight controls, finding no mechanical failures or technical defects that contributed to the event. While the pilot reported that the aircraft was carrying 1,000 kg of wheat seed and 300 liters of fuel, the lack of official loading logs from the operator made it impossible to verify the exact weight and balance at the time of departure. However, calculations based on the most restrictive weight scenario suggested the aircraft was within its maximum takeoff weight limits.
Although official meteorological reports indicated calm conditions, interviews revealed that the aircraft likely encountered a wind component from the north, resulting in a tailwind during the takeoff roll. The investigation also noted that the takeoff direction was influenced by the positioning of ground support equipment used for refueling and loading.
Findings
- The primary cause of the excursion was likely a tailwind that negatively impacted the aircraft's takeoff performance.
- The deviation from the runway centerline caused the aircraft to strike a cornfield, which disrupted the initial climb and prevented the aircraft from clearing the tree line.