What happened
On August 19, 2024, at approximately 16:20 UTC, an Air Tractor AT-802A, registration LV-CGS, crashed in a mountainous area near Cerro Velasco, located about 20 km southwest of La Rioja city. The aircraft was engaged in aerial firefighting operations at the time of the accident. The flight originated from and was intended to return to the Capitán Vicente Almandos Aerodrome. During its mission in the operational zone, the aircraft struck the terrain.
The investigation
The preliminary investigation conducted by the Argentine Transportation Safety Board (JST) focused on the flight path and the circumstances surrounding the impact. The aircraft, operated by a private entity, was performing specialized aerial work to combat wildfires. The investigation confirmed that the impact occurred in the southern zone of the Cerro Velatus mountain range. The flight duration prior to the accident was recorded at approximately 15 minutes.
Findings
- The aircraft was performing aerial firefighting operations at the time of the accident.
- The impact occurred in rugged, mountainous terrain.
- The accident resulted in one fatality, involving the pilot on board.
- There were no passengers or other persons on board the aircraft.