What happened
On April 20, 2025, a BRM AERO (Bristell) light-sport aircraft, registration LV-S073, was conducting a non-commercial relocation flight from Salta General Belgrano Aeroclub toward Rosario de la Frontera. The flight was initially conducted under Visual Flight Rules (VFR).
As the aircraft approached within approximately 20 miles of its destination, the pilot encountered deteriorating meteorological conditions that transitioned the flight into Instrument Meteorological Conditions (IMC). During this period, a potential engine component failure occurred. Faced with the combination of loss of engine performance and the inability to maintain visual references, the pilot activated the aircraft's ballistic parachute system.
The deployment of the parachute led to a controlled descent into a soybean field located near the intersection of Route 16 and Route 9 in Metán, Salta. The impact with the unpaved terrain resulted in substantial damage to the aircraft's landing gear and various minor structural components. The pilot was the sole occupant and sustained no injuries.
The investigation
The Argentine Transportation Safety Board (JST) conducted a preliminary investigation into the occurrence. The inquiry focused on the sequence of events leading to the transition from VFR to IMC and the subsequent mechanical issues. Investigators examined the aircraft's maintenance records, which were found to be current, and the engine's operational history. The investigation also reviewed the deployment of the emergency parachute system and the impact dynamics within the cultivated field.