What happened
On 15 July 2015, a WSK PZL-M18B, registration EC-FAT, was performing its first flight of the day at the Doade forest firefighting base in Lugo, Spain. The aircraft, operated by SAETA, had been mobilized to assist with a nearby wildfire. During the takeoff run, the pilot noticed the aircraft drifting left of the runway centerline.
In an attempt to correct the deviation, the pilot applied rudder, but the aircraft continued to move left, likely due to the high engine torque and resulting gyroscopic effect. Realizing the deviation could not be corrected, the pilot applied the right brake and reduced power to abort the takeoff. However, the aircraft could not be stopped within the remaining runway distance. The aircraft departed the runway via the left side, colliding with the perimeter fence before crashing into the surrounding terrain. The pilot was uninjured, but the aircraft sustained significant damage to its landing gear, wings, and propeller.
The investigation
The investigation examined the aircraft's maintenance history, the pilot's credentials, and the environmental conditions at the time of the accident. The aircraft was found to be airworthy, with all documentation and recent inspections in order. The pilot held a valid commercial license and medical certificate, with extensive experience in firefighting operations.
Investigators also analyzed the aerodrome infrastructure. At the time, the Doade base did not have runway centerline markings, as they were not required under the regulations then in effect. Meteorological data from a nearby station indicated favorable conditions, with a light northwest wind and good visibility, suggesting that weather was not a contributing factor.
Findings
- The pilot held a valid commercial pilot license and medical certificate.
- The WSK PZL-M18B was airworthy and properly maintained.
- The runway surface was in good condition, dry, and free of contamination.
- Wind conditions at the time of the accident were not limiting to the operation.
- The pilot lost control of the aircraft during the takeoff roll.