What happened
On September 23, 2004, a Morane-Saulnier MS 893A, registration D-EKCD, was conducting a local flight departing from Mortágua – Santa Comba Dão Aerodrome. The aircraft, carrying a pilot and two passengers, flew over Carregal do Sal before returning to the aerodrome for landing on runway 17.
The landing was initially smooth and occurred at the beginning of the runway. However, as the pilot attempted to reduce the ground speed by applying the brakes, the aircraft veered to the right. The aircraft traveled approximately 110 meters from the initial braking marks before exiting the runway 62 meters from the end of the pavement. The aircraft came to a stop in a small ravine, where the wings struck small pine and eucalyptus trees. There were no injuries to the occupants, though the aircraft sustained damage to the nose gear and the leading edges of both wings.
The investigation
The GPIAAF investigation examined the aircraft's maintenance records, the pilot's qualifications, and the physical evidence at the scene. Maintenance logs indicated that the aircraft had been properly maintained in accordance with all required programs and airworthiness directives. Post-accident ground maneuvering tests confirmed that the braking system and the nose wheel were functioning normally, with no mechanical failures detected.
The investigation also focused on the pilot's actions during the braking phase. Because the pedals in this specific aircraft model are positioned high, the pilot admitted to a potential lapse in concentration. He suggested that he may have inadvertently applied pressure only to the right brake pedal, while his left foot slipped beneath the pedal, resulting in asymmetrical braking.
Findings
- The primary cause of the accident was improper piloting technique during the braking phase of the landing.
- The pilot applied unbalanced braking, causing the aircraft to yaw to the right and exit the runway.
- The aircraft's braking system was fully operational and showed no signs of mechanical malfunction.
- Meteorological conditions were favorable, with calm winds, clear visibility (CAVOK), and a temperature of 20°C.