What happened
On the afternoon of July 14, 2002, a PZL M18-B Dromader, registration SP-ZWP, was performing aerial firefighting operations near Castelo Branco, Portugal. Operated by Aeronorte, the aircraft was part of a pair engaged in dropping retardant to combat a forest fire. After completing four sorties, the pilot began the approach to the Moitas municipal airstrip in Proença-a-Nova.
During the approach to runway 30, the aircraft encountered significant crosswinds and strong gusts. The pilot touched down in a three-point position but was unable to maintain directional control as a strong gust lifted the tailwheel from the ground. The aircraft veered sharply to the right, exiting the paved surface and heading toward a rainwater collection lagoon. To avoid the water, the pilot applied full power, causing the aircraft to climb into a stall. While attempting to maneuver left to avoid large pine and eucalyptus trees, the aircraft struck the treetops, entered a spin, and eventually impacted the grassy terrain near a parachuting area. The aircraft suffered total destruction, though the pilot escaped without injury.
The investigation
The GPIAAF investigation focused on the meteorological conditions at the Moitas airstrip and the pilot's approach technique. Investigators found that the aeronautical station at the base was inoperative, preventing the transmission of real-time weather updates via radio. Furthermore, the airstrip lacked wind indicators, such as a windsock, which prevented the pilot from accurately assessing the intensity and direction of the crosswind during the final approach.
Findings
- The primary cause was the pilot's incorrect assessment of adverse local meteorological conditions, specifically the strong, gusty crosswind, which led to an inadequate landing technique.
- The pilot had relatively limited recent experience with the PZL M18-B model, having flown it for only approximately 16 hours prior to the accident.
- The lack of wind direction and intensity indicators at the Moitas airstrip hindered the pilot's ability to prepare for the crosswind component.
- The presence of non-frangible obstacles, including large trees and a rainwater lagoon near the runway edge, increased the severity of the excursion.
- The inoperability of the local aeronautical station meant critical weather information was unavailable to the crew.