What happened
On June 21, 2024, at approximately 13:00 UTC, a Tecnam P2002 Sierra, registration LV-S025, was conducting a general aviation training flight at Aeródromo La Puntilla in Mendoza, Argentina. While performing circuit maneuvers, the aircraft experienced a sudden loss of engine power shortly after the pilot had applied power.
Due to the lack of remaining runway length following the power loss, the pilot was unable to continue the maneuver within the airfield boundaries. This necessitated an emergency landing outside the aerodrome, which resulted in the aircraft striking a building. Both occupants of the aircraft were able to evacuate the wreckage on their own.
The investigation
The preliminary investigation focused on the sequence of events during the training maneuvers and the mechanical state of the engine at the time of the power loss. The investigation established that the incident occurred during the takeoff/departure phase of the flight pattern, specifically after the pilot had increased engine power. The impact with a structure led to the total destruction of the aircraft.
Findings
- The primary cause of the accident was a loss of engine power during the execution of circuit maneuvers.
- The aircraft was unable to remain on the runway due to the lack of remaining runway distance following the engine failure.
- The aircraft sustained substantial damage, resulting in it being declared destroyed.
- There were zero fatalities and no serious or minor injuries reported for the two occupants.