What happened
On 29 June 2013, a solo training flight at Baramati Airfield ended in a significant runway excursion. The aircraft, a Cessna 172 R with registration VT-BUD, was being operated by M/s Academy of Carver Aviation Pvt. Ltd. for the purpose of converting an Australian Commercial Pilot License to an Indian license.
After successfully completing an initial circuit and landing, the trainee pilot commenced a second solo circuit. During the approach to Runway 29, air traffic control reported southwesterly winds of approximately 13 knots. While the pilot initially used a crab technique to maintain the centerline, the aircraft drifted to the right following touchdown. The pilot attempted a right rudder correction to realign the aircraft, but the maneuver resulted in an overcorrection of the rudder. This caused the aircraft to veer off the paved surface and into the unpaved (kutcha) area. The nose wheel became stuck in the soft ground, causing the aircraft to topple upside down. There were no injuries to the pilot, though the aircraft sustained substantial damage.
The investigation
An inquiry committee established that the aircraft was well-maintained, with a valid Certificate of Airworthiness and no pending mechanical issues. The pilot held a valid student pilot license and medical certification, though the investigation noted a period of inactivity in the pilot's flying history between 2010 and 2013.
The investigation examined the meteorological conditions and aerodrome environment. At the time of the accident, the crosswind component was calculated at 10 knots, which was within the acceptable limits defined in the Pilot Operating Handbook. The committee also noted that the Baramati Airfield was not licensed by the DGCA and observed loose pebbles near the Runway 29 threshold.
Findings
- The primary cause of the accident was the overcorrection of the rudder by the trainee pilot during the landing phase.
- Crosswind conditions acted as a contributory factor to the excursion.
- The aircraft's nose wheel became embedded in soft ground, leading to the inversion of the airframe.
- The lack of a windsock at the end of Runway 29 and the presence of loose pebbles near the threshold were noted environmental factors.