What happened
On June 1, 2017, a Piper Cherokee (registration TG-GYV) crashed into the Volcán de Agua, located in the municipality of Alotenango, Sacatepéquez, Guatemala. The aircraft was involved in a flight operation in the region when it impacted the volcanic terrain.
The investigation
The investigation conducted by the DGAC/UIA examined the meteorological conditions and the maintenance history of the aircraft. Meteorological reports from La Aurora International Airport indicated that during the timeframe of the accident (between 11:00 and 14:00 local time), the area was experiencing convective activity. Specifically, reports noted the presence of Cumulonimbus clouds and towering cumulus (TCU) in the vicinity of the volcanic chain, with precipitation noted in the north-northwest direction during the early part of the afternoon.
Regarding the aircraft's airworthiness, maintenance records for the propeller (Sensenich M74DM) showed a recent major overhaul completed in July 2016. The records indicated that all applicable Airworthiness Directives (ADs) and Service Bulletins (SBs) had been verified and complied with, and no cracks or corrosion were found during the most recent inspections.
Findings
- The flight occurred during a period of active convective weather, characterized by Cumulonimbus clouds and significant vertical cloud development (TCU) near the accident site.
- The aircraft's propeller had undergone a recent overhaul and was documented as being in an airworthy condition prior to the event.