What happened
On January 25, 2023, at approximately 14:30 local time, a Cessna U206G was performing a landing on runway 33 at Reñihue Aerodrome (SCRH) in the Los Lagos Region of Chile. The aircraft, operated by a private pilot, was carrying one passenger at the time of the event. During the landing roll on the unpaved surface, the aircraft veered off the runway, traveled approximately 240 meters, and ultimately overturned. Both the pilot and the passenger were able to exit the aircraft on their own and sustained no injuries.
The investigation
DGAC Chile investigators examined the wreckage and the site conditions at the aerodrome. The investigation focused on the aircraft's mechanical state, the maintenance history, and the environmental conditions during the landing. The aircraft, which had completed its annual inspection in late November 2022, was found to have significant structural damage. Specifically, the propeller blades sustained impact damage, the engine was subject to inspection due to the sudden stoppage caused by the propeller strike, and the fuselage, vertical stabilizer, and rudder showed various dents and abrasions from contact with the ground. The right wing strut was bent, and the left wing exhibited denting and material loss at the tip.
Investigators also reviewed the operational environment, noting that the aerodrome features a dirt runway. At the time of the accident, the weather was characterized by overcast skies and light drizzle, though visibility remained good and there was no reported turbulence.
Findings
- The aircraft veered off the runway during the landing phase.
- The landing surface at Reñihue Aerodrome is composed of earth/dirt.
- The aircraft sustained damage to the propeller, engine, fuselage, and both wings.
- The pilot and passenger were uninjured.
- Maintenance records for the aircraft were found to be in compliance with regulations, with all required inspections up to date.