Summary of Events
On July 2, 2022, at 18:00 UTC, a Tecnam P2008 aircraft, registration LV-S046, operated as a private general aviation pleasure flight, landed at the aerodrome of Aeroclub Allen in Río Negro province. After landing and parking on the platform, a passenger disembarked and was struck by the propeller, which was still rotating. The passenger sustained serious injuries, including fractures and head contusions, and was transported to a hospital in Allen by private vehicle, then transferred to a hospital in Cipolletti where she remained hospitalized for more than 48 hours. The aircraft sustained substantial damage due to the sudden engine stoppage caused by the propeller impact.
Investigation Findings
The accident was reported five days after it occurred, complicating field investigation. The pilot's Aeronautical Medical Certificate (CMA) had expired on December 31, 2021. The aerodrome is private and uncontrolled. The Aeroclub provided a manual with safety procedures for aerosports events, but it did not include measures for passenger boarding or disembarking. According to interviews, the pilot did not instruct the passenger on how to safely move away from the aircraft after exiting.
Aircraft and Pilot Information
The aircraft was a Tecnam P2008, privately owned, and operated under general aviation category. The pilot held a private pilot license. The investigation did not find records confirming the appointment of an airfield manager as required by Argentine Civil Aviation Regulations (RAAC) Part 65, Section 65.245. Additionally, no documentation was obtained showing the existence of an emergency plan for the aerodrome, as required by RAAC Part 153, Appendix 2, point 2.B.
Safety Issues Identified
- The pilot's medical certificate was expired at the time of the flight.
- No formal procedures existed for safe passenger egress from the aircraft.
- The pilot did not provide safety instructions to the passenger before departure or after landing.
- The aerodrome lacked a designated manager and an emergency plan, as per applicable regulations.
These findings indicate gaps in safety management, but the report does not assign a probable cause.