Incident Overview
A single-engine aircraft was forced to ditch in the Río de la Plata estuary after experiencing engine problems during a private flight. The aircraft had departed Don Torcuato Airport bound for Punta del Este, Uruguay, with four passengers and one pilot on board.
Flight and Emergency
Approximately 15 minutes into the flight, while cruising under good weather conditions, the pilot notified air traffic control of engine issues and declared an intention to divert to Buenos Aires–Aeroparque Jorge Newbery Airport. However, the aircraft was unable to maintain a safe altitude, and the pilot ultimately executed a ditching in the Río de la Plata, approximately 28 kilometers northeast of Buenos Aires.
Rescue and Outcome
Responders arrived quickly at the scene and were able to evacuate all five occupants, who were uninjured. The aircraft itself was lost in the incident.
Investigation
Official investigators were unable to determine the exact cause of the engine problems that led to the ditching.