What happened
On October 26, 2020, an Ayres Thrush S2R, registration TG-SUR, was engaged in agricultural spraying operations at Finca Primavera, located in the municipality of Tiquisate, Escuintla. The aircraft was operating from the Palo Blanco airstrip, intended to spread fungicide over local crops.
During the takeoff roll, the aircraft failed to achieve flight. The aircraft's configuration during the takeoff run prevented it from gaining sufficient lift to become airborne, leading to the occurrence of the accident on the runway surface.
The investigation
The DGAC/UIA investigation examined the aircraft's maintenance records, the pilot's qualifications, and the physical wreckage. The investigation confirmed that the aircraft was airworthy and that all scheduled maintenance had been performed according to the manufacturer's manual. The pilot was a qualified flight instructor with specific ratings for agricultural spraying and single-engine land aircraft.
Post-accident inspections of the aircraft's systems, components, and flight controls revealed no mechanical failures or malfunctions. Meteorological conditions at the time of the accident were favorable, with visibility and cloud cover not posing any negative impact on the takeoff attempt.
Findings
- The aircraft was operated with the flaps in the full extension position during the takeoff roll.
- The failure to retract the flaps to the proper takeoff setting was the primary reason the aircraft failed to fly.
- The pilot was physically and psychologically fit for duty, with no evidence of impairment or medical limitations.
Safety action
- Pilots are advised to ensure all electrical, mechanical, and avionics configurations are returned to their normal positions after landing and refueling operations.
- It is recommended that all flight crews strictly adhere to the manufacturer's recommended procedures and physically verify every item on the aircraft checklist to prevent the omission of critical flight configuration steps.