What happened
On September 10, 2018, a Cessna 206H was performing a landing approach to runway 02 at the Łuków-Gręzówka landing field. During the approach, the pilot identified a malfunction in the flap deployment system, noting that the flaps remained in the retracted (UP) position. After checking the circuit breakers and attempting several unsuccessful deployment maneuvers, the pilot elected to proceed with the landing using a higher approach speed, consistent with the aircraft's AFM requirements of 7ally 75-85 knots.
Upon touchdown, the pilot attempted to decelerate, but the aircraft failed to come to a complete stop before the end of the runway. The aircraft eventually struck and breached the airfield perimeter fence, coming to a rest several meters beyond the landing field. There were no injuries to the two occupants on board.
The investigation
The investigation, conducted by the operator's commission, examined the mechanical failure of the flaps and the environmental conditions at the time of the incident. The inquiry established that the runway surface was slippery due to recent irrigation activities. Furthermore, the investigation found that the airfield management had not notified crews of the ongoing irrigation work. Because the landing field lacked radio communication facilities, the pilot was unaware of the altered surface conditions.
Findings
- The primary cause of the excursion was the combination of crosswinds from 90 degrees relative to the runway and a slippery runway surface caused by irrigation.
- The mechanical failure of the flap system necessitated a higher approach speed, which contributed to the increased landing distance.
- The lack of communication regarding the wet surface conditions prevented the pilot from adjusting for the reduced braking effectiveness.