What happened
On March 12, 2022, an Ayres Rockwell Int. S2R, registration LV-BYP, operated by Aviación Agrícola Argentina S.A., was performing agricultural spraying operations in the rural area of Mula Muerta, Totoral, Córdoba. The aircraft had departed from a temporary field to service crops located approximately 25 km away.
During the approach phase of the fourth flight of the day, the engine ceased functioning. Due to the low altitude and the inability to reach the departure site, the pilot performed an emergency landing in a cornfield. During the impact, the aircraft struck a fence, causing it to rotate and come to rest in an inverted position. The pilot sustained one minor injury and was able to exit the aircraft independently. The aircraft sustained significant damage to the cockpit, propeller, wing, and empennette.
The investigation
The JST investigation established that the aircraft had been fueled with approximately 210 liters of fuel for the mission. Based on the pilot's experience and the aircraft's operational history, the engine consumption was estimated at roughly 160 liters per hour. The flight duration for this specific leg was approximately 75 minutes.
Investigators examined the fuel tanks and found them to be empty. While the aircraft was equipped with a fuel quantity indicator, the investigation noted that this type of gauge does not provide a highly precise reading of remaining fuel. Analysis of the propeller blades showed slight deformation, suggesting the engine was already shut down at the moment of ground contact. Furthermore, the investigation noted a delay in the official notification of the accident, which was reported three days after the occurrence.
Findings
- The pilot and ground support staff were unable to determine the exact amount of fuel loaded for the flight.
- The amount of fuel loaded was insufficient to complete the planned operation.
- The engine failure was caused by fuel exhaustion.
- There was a lack of timely notification regarding the accident to the investigating authorities.