On January 6, 2018, a PZL-Mielec AN-2 (registration YV1944) operated by Rutaca - Rutas Aéreas was involved in an aviation accident near La Paragua, Venezuela during takeoff. No fatalities were reported. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The aircraft entered an aerodynamic stall during the initial climb phase following takeoff. This summary draws on records from the Bureau of Aircraft Accidents Archives (B3A); 3 related events involving the same aircraft type or operator are linked below.
A single-engine aircraft crashed and caught fire in a prairie field shortly after departing, resulting in serious injuries to both occupants.
What happened
During the initial climb phase following takeoff, a single-engine aircraft experienced an aerodynamic stall. This loss of lift caused the plane to descend rapidly into a nearby prairie area. Upon impact with the ground, the aircraft's structure was compromised, leading to a significant post-crash fire.
The impact and subsequent flames resulted in the total destruction of the airframe. Both members of the flight crew sustained serious injuries during the accident. There were no other persons involved in the event.
Findings
Preliminary details indicate that the accident occurred while the aircraft was transitioning from takeoff to its climb altitude. The primary factor leading to the loss of control was the aerodynamic stall experienced during the early stages of flight.
Probable cause
The aircraft entered an aerodynamic stall during the initial climb phase following takeoff.