What happened
On April 28, 2025, at 12:45 UTC, a Cessna 182, registration LV-HTM, departed from the Allen Aerodrome in Río Negro, Argentina, bound for Bariloche for a recreational flight. Following takeoff under visual meteorological conditions, the aircraft performed a low-altitude flyover near the Allen Aeroclub hangars. During this maneuver, the aircraft struck a person on the ground, resulting in one fatality.
Immediately following the contact, the aircraft struck the terrain, causing the nose gear to detach. Despite the damage, the aircraft regained altitude and continued flying for approximately 350 meters before performing an emergency landing in an unprepared field. During this subsequent landing, the aircraft capsized. The pilot and one passenger sustained two injuries (both classified as minor), while the individual on the ground was killed.
The investigation
The Argentine Transportation Safety Board (JST) examined the wreckage and the flight path. The investigation confirmed that the aircraft's engine and propeller sustained significant damage, including a fractured intake and exhaust manifold, likely due to contact with the ground. While the ailerons and elevators remained functional, the rudder's movement was restricted due to damage to the tail section.
Investigators also reviewed the pilot's credentials, noting a valid commercial pilot license and sufficient flight experience. The aircraft was found to be maintained according to manufacturer standards. The investigation is currently awaiting data from the pilot's portable GPS device and the aircraft's engine data computer to more precisely reconstruct the flight trajectory.
Findings
- The primary cause of the accident was the low-altitude flight maneuver near the aeroclub hangars, which led to the collision with a person on the ground.
- The aircraft suffered substantial structural damage to the fuselage, empennage, and engine cowling.
- The emergency landing in an unprepared field resulted in the aircraft capsizing.