What happened
On August 13, 2020, an Antara A, registration LV-X578, was undergoing a ground run test at the Belén de Escobar aerodrome. The operation was intended to be a runway test with no intention of flight. However, during the procedure, the aircraft unexpectedly took off from the runway. Following the unintended takeoff, the pilot performed a water landing in the Santa María Canal, located approximately 500 meters from the Paraná de Las Palmas River in the province of Buenos Aires.
The investigation
The Argentine Transportation Safety Board (JST) conducted a technical review of the event. Investigators examined the circumstances surrounding the takeoff and the subsequent landing in the canal. The investigation focused on the mechanical or operational factors that led to the aircraft leaving the ground during a non-flight test. The investigation also assessed the condition of the aircraft following the impact with the water and the potential risks to operational safety.
Findings
- The aircraft sustained minor damage during the incident.
- There was one person on board, who sustained minor injuries.
- The primary cause of the event was an unintended takeoff during a ground test.
- The incident occurred during a general aviation test flight operation.