What happened
On March 19, 2024, at approximately 21:40 UTC, a Cessna 152II, registration LV-ODW, was conducting a local flight for pilot retraining at the Círculo de Aviación Rosario in Pueblo Esther, Santa Fe. During the initial climb phase, at an altitude of approximately 300 feet, the engine suddenly ceased operation. The instructor pilot performed an emergency landing in a wetland area consisting of islands located across from Pueblo Esther. Both the instructor and the student pilot evacuated the aircraft safely, though both sustained minor injuries. The aircraft sustained significant damage during the impact.
The investigation
The Argentine Transportation Safety Board (JST) examined the aircraft, the site of the accident, and the fuel supply chain. Investigators analyzed fuel samples taken from the carburetor and the right wing tank, which revealed the presence of water. The investigation also looked into the fuel storage facilities at the airfield. It was discovered that the underground storage tank used for AVGAS 100LL contained a significant amount of water. Furthermore, the investigation found that the fuel dispensing station at the airfield was not registered with the National Secretariat of Energy, classifying it as an unauthorized or "clandestine" supply point.
Findings
- The engine failure was directly caused by water contamination in the fuel.
- The aircraft had been refueled with AVGAS 100LL from the airfield's dispenser prior to departure.
- The underground storage tank at the airfield contained substantial water contamination.
- The fuel supply at the aerodrome was being provided through a facility that was not legally registered or authorized under national energy regulations.
- A systemic discrepancy was identified between the official aeronautical information published in the MADHEL (Manual of Aerodromes and Heliports) and the actual regulatory status of fuel providers at uncontrolled aerodromes.