What happened
On August 1, 2013, a Cessna 172M, registration TG-CAL, was involved in an aircraft accident in the vicinity of Aldea Xatinap Primero, within the municipality of Santa Cruz del Quiche, Guatemala. The flight occurred during a period of deteriorating meteorological conditions. According to weather reports from the nearby Coban station, the region was experiencing significant convective activity. By 14:00 local time, visibility had reduced to approximately 3 kilometers due to heavy rain and thunderstorms, with cumulonimbus clouds present in the northeast, east, and west sectors.
The investigation
The investigation conducted by the DGAC/UIA examined the aircraft's maintenance history and the prevailing weather conditions at the time of the impact. Maintenance records indicated that the aircraft had undergone a 100-hour inspection and various component replacements, including an alternator belt and spark plugs, in the months preceding the accident. The investigation also reviewed meteorological data provided by INSIVUMEH, which confirmed the presence of active thunderstorms and heavy precipitation in the area during the afternoon of the occurrence.
Findings
- The aircraft encountered heavy rain and thunderstorms characterized by reduced visibility and cumulonimbus clouds.
- Meteorological observations noted significant convective activity, including thunderstorms and heavy precipitation, affecting the Santa Cruz del Quiche area.
- The aircraft's maintenance logs showed recent inspections and engine component updates, including the installation of new spark plugs and an air filter.