What happened
On May 22, 2021, a Thrush aircraft, registration TG-PAL, was engaged in agricultural spraying operations at Finca Sevilla, located near the Puerto Quetzal highway in the municipality of Masagua, Escuintla. The flight was part of a routine mission to distribute chemical products, departing from the aircraft's base at Aeródromo La Flora in Tiquisate to perform work at the plantation.
During the takeoff phase, the aircraft failed to achieve the necessary climb rate and subsequently lost lift, resulting in a crash at the plantation site. The pilot survived the impact but sustained injuries, including lumbar fractures and a knee injury, requiring hospitalization for further medical evaluation.
The investigation
The investigation conducted by the DGAC/UIA examined the aircraft's maintenance records, the pilot's qualifications, and the physical wreckage. Investigators performed a borescope inspection of the engine and found no evidence of mechanical failure or internal engine issues. Maintenance logs indicated that the aircraft was compliant with its scheduled maintenance program and was in an airworthy condition at the time of the accident. Meteorological conditions at the time of the event were found to be favorable and did not contribute to the accident.
Findings
- The investigation established that the aircraft began its takeoff with the flaps in an extended position.
- The primary cause of the accident was that the flaps were never retracted following takeoff. While the pilot's checklist specifies using flaps as required, it also mandates retraction after takeoff. Because the flaps remained extended, the aircraft could not reach the required climb speed and subsequently lost lift.
- The pilot's physical and psychological condition were found to be acceptable, with no evidence of impairment or negative human factors contributing to the event.
Safety action
- The DGAC recommends that agricultural pilots strictly adhere to the use of checklists to ensure critical steps, such as flap retraction, are not overlooked.
- It is recommended that company operational safety authorities emphasize the importance of conducting thorough flight reviews in accordance with established regulations.