What happened
On April 6, 2024, an Air-Tractor AT-401-B, registration LV-BMX, was performing agricultural seeding operations in a rural area approximately 17 km southwest of Washington, Córdoba. During the takeoff roll from an improvised field, the pilot noticed the engine was not providing the expected acceleration. Despite the lack of performance and the limited remaining runway, the pilot continued the takeoff maneuver.
The aircraft reached an altitude of approximately four meters but was unable to maintain a climb. The aircraft entered a critical flight regime characterized by low energy and insufficient airspeed. During the flight path, the aircraft struck a tree and subsequently performed a controlled emergency landing on unprepared terrain. The aircraft sustained significant damage to the left wing, horizontal stabilizer, and propeller blades, though the pilot escaped without injury.
The investigation
The investigation examined the aircraft's maintenance records, which were found to be up to date, and the pilot's credentials, which met all regulatory requirements. Investigators analyzed the engine and propeller, noting that marks on the propeller blades indicated the engine was still producing power at the moment of impact. However, the exact cause of the perceived power loss could not be definitively determined.
The investigation also looked into the aircraft's emergency hopper discharge system. The pilot had attempted to use this system to lighten the load and gain altitude; however, a locking mechanism on the discharge lever had been partially engaged during the loading process, which prevented the rapid evacuation of the seeds.
Findings
- The aircraft failed to reach the necessary velocity for a safe takeoff and climb.
- The pilot continued the takeoff maneuver despite a noticeable lack of engine acceleration and insufficient runway length.
- The emergency hopper discharge system failed to function as intended because the locking mechanism was in an improper position.
- The aircraft was operating in a high-demand, low-energy flight state that left no margin for error.