What happened
On February 9, 2025, at approximately 11:15 local time, a Cessna T206H, registration TG-HCC, was operating a flight from the Rio Dulce Aeroclub toward La Aurora International Airport. While cruising in a straight and level flight at 7,5 and00 feet, the aircraft encountered a flock of vultures (Aura species) approximately 15 nautical miles north-northeast of Guatemala City, near Palencia.
The collision resulted in visible damage to several parts of the aircraft's structure. The impact affected the upper and lower engine cowling on the right side, specifically near the engine oil radiator, the nose gear fairing, the leading edge of the right wing, and the leading edge of the right horizontal stabilizer. Following the strike, the pilot maintained control of the aircraft and successfully landed at La Aurora International Airport.
The investigation
The investigation conducted by the UIA established that the aircraft was flying in a normal phase of flight when it encountered the birds. The investigation focused on the presence of vultures in the area, noting that these birds are frequently found near landfills due to the availability of organic waste and decomposing matter. The investigation identified that the proximity of such waste sites to established flight paths increases the risk of mid-air collisions during takeoff, cruise, and landing phases.
Findings
- The primary cause of the incident was a bird strike involving a flock of vultures.
- The presence of large bird populations is driven by the proximity of landfills to flight routes, which attracts vultures to fly in groups at various altitudes.
- The location of waste management sites near approach and departure paths significantly increases the exposure of aircraft to avian hazards.