What happened
On August 16, 2025, a VANS RV12, registration LV-X988, was performing a private pleasure flight in the Oncativo region of Córdoba, Argentina. The aircraft was operating in visual meteorological conditions (VMC) during daylight hours, traveling from Villa María Regional Airport toward its destination.
During the approach phase of the flight, the aircraft struck high-voltage power lines. The impact caused the aircraft to lose control and crash into the ground. The aircraft sustained substantial damage during the event. Despite the impact, the pilot survived with minor injuries.
The investigation
The Argentine Transportation Safety Board (JST) initiated an investigation into the collision. Investigators examined the flight path, the environmental conditions at the time of the accident, and the physical evidence at the wreckage site. The investigation focused on the aircraft's trajectory during the approach and the presence of hazards in the flight path near the aerodrome.
Findings
- The primary cause of the accident was the collision with unmarked high-voltage power lines during the approach.
- The aircraft was operating under visual flight rules with good visibility (10,000 meters) and calm winds.
- The impact with the cables led to the subsequent ground impact.