ERA12WA136

On November 23, 2011, about 2000 coordinated universal time, a Piper PA-36-300, Ecuadorian registration HC-BHJ, operated by Aerorient Fumigacion Aerea, was substantially damaged when the pilot made a forced landing following loss of engine power in a banana plantation. Visual meteorological conditions prevailed and no flight plan was filed. The pilot reported no injuries. The flight originated from Machala Airport (MCH) Machala, Ecuador, at an undetermined time. The pilot stated he was performing his second swath run when he heard an explosion from the engine. He observed smoke and the engine started losing power. He jettisoned his load of chemicals and made a forced landing to the banana plantation. The investigation is under the jurisdiction of the Government of Ecuador. Further information can be obtained from: Dirección General de Aviación Civil Junta Investigadora de Accidentes de la República del Ecuador Avenida Colón E5-56 y La Rábida Edificio Ave María Torre Sur Quito, República del Ecuador Tel: 593-02-223-8981 www.dgac.gov.ec This report is for informational purposes, and only contains information released by the Government of Ecuador.