What happened
On May 6, 2020, a Cessna 182P, registration TG-MOL, was performing a visual flight operation from Guatemala toward Canillá. During the return leg of the flight, the aircraft entered a mountainous region in the department of Quiché. While flying at a low altitude, the aircraft was unable to maintain control and impacted the terrain in the vicinity of Caserío Pojopop, within the municipality of Canillá.
The impact was severe, and a subsequent post-crash fire completely destroyed the aircraft. The pilot and all passengers sustained fatal injuries at the scene. Due to the rugged terrain and the remote location, emergency response services were unable to reach the site in time to assist the occupants.
The investigation
The DGAC/UIA investigation examined the wreckage, maintenance logs, and meteorological conditions. Investigators found that the aircraft was properly certified, equipped, and maintained according to regulations. The aircraft's weight and balance were within acceptable limits, and no unusual cargo was found in the wreckage.
While the aircraft's performance capabilities allowed for an altitude of up to 18,000 feet, the investigation focused on the flight's final moments. The investigation noted that the pilot was unable to establish radio communication during the return flight because the low altitude and mountainous terrain prevented the signal from reaching air traffic services. Furthermore, the investigation found that the pilot had not adequately assessed the wind conditions or visibility during the emergency.
Findings
- The primary cause of the accident was an unreported or uncorrected engine power issue.
- The pilot failed to properly assess the impact of wind direction, wind speed, and visibility, which prevented an effective operational response to the developing emergency.
- The rugged topography of the area made it impossible to execute a safe emergency landing.
- The aircraft was destroyed by the forces of the impact and the resulting fire.