What happened
On October 12, 2022, at approximately 21:20 UTC, an unregistered experimental aircraft departed from the Jesús María aerodrome in the province of Córdoba for a local general aviation flight. Shortly after takeoff, while operating under visual flight conditions, the aircraft entered a steep, right-hand descending turn, resembling a corkscrew motion. The aircraft struck the ground at a high angle of attack near the northeast boundary of the airfield. The impact resulted in the death of the pilot and the total destruction of the aircraft, including the engine and propeller.
The investigation
Investigators examined the wreckage and the construction of the aircraft, which was a homebuilt project. The airframe was assembled by the owner using parts from other aircraft, including the wings and empennage of a Baby 3 glider, while other components like the fuselage and landing gear were custom-designed or adapted. Notably, the engine was a non-aviation Honda unit powered by automotive gasoline.
The investigation also reviewed the regulatory status of the aircraft. It was established that the aircraft lacked both a registration mark and a Special Experimental Airworthiness Certificate. Furthermore, there were no records of any registration process being initiated with the National Civil Aviation Administration (ANAC) for this specific project. The investigation also noted that the pilot's medical certification status could not be verified, though records indicated it had expired.
Findings
- The accident was caused by a loss of control at low altitude.
- The aircraft impacted the terrain with a high pitch angle during a right-hand turn.
- The aircraft was not legally registered and lacked the necessary experimental airworthiness certification.
- The engine used was not of aviation grade, utilizing an automotive Honda engine and automotive fuel.