What happened
On March 15, 2021, a Piper PA-28-181, registration EC-IRJ, was performing a visual flight from Cuatro Vientos to Muchamiel for the purpose of accumulating flight hours for a pilot training for a CPL license. The aircraft was operated by the TAS flight club and carried the pilot and two passengers.
During the landing phase on runway 12 at Muchamiel, the aircraft made smooth contact with the runway surface. However, as the pilot began to apply the brakes, the aircraft started to veer toward the left. The pilot attempted to correct the deviation by applying the left rudder pedal, but the aircraft continued to drift left, exiting the paved runway surface and crossing the runway strip. The aircraft eventually came to a stop 40 meters from the runway centerline and 200 meters from the threshold. During the excursion, the aircraft encountered uneven terrain which caused the nose gear to collapse and the propeller blades to strike the ground. All 3 occupants were uninjured.
The investigation
The CIAIAC investigation examined the aircraft's mechanical condition, the pilot's actions, and the environmental factors. The investigation confirmed that the aircraft's braking and steering systems, including the pedals and cables, were fully functional and showed no mechanical anomalies. The pilot's flight plan, weight and balance, and pre-flight checks were all found to be in order. Meteorological conditions at the time were favorable, with clear skies and light winds.
Investigators analyzed the tracks left on the runway, which indicated a symmetric but potentially rapid application of the brakes. The pilot stated that while attempting to correct the initial leftward movement, they were unable to apply sufficient counter-steering to maintain the runway centerline.
Findings
- The primary cause of the accident was the loss of control of the aircraft during the landing roll due to incorrect braking and nose wheel steering control.
- The pilot's application of the left rudder pedal contributed to the leftward deviation.
- The nose gear collapse and propeller damage were caused by the aircraft encountering uneven ground after exiting the paved runway.
- There were no mechanical failures or environmental factors contributing to the loss of directional control.