What happened
On February 10, 2013, a Cirrus SR22, registration PR-JJZ, was operating a private flight from Brasília to Fazenda Santa Adélia. During the flight, the crew encountered meteorological formations that prevented them from landing at their intended destination or their planned alternate, Goianésia. Consequently, the crew decided to divert to the Ceres Aerodrome (SWCZ) to disembark a passenger.
Following the passenger's disembarkation, the aircraft attempted a takeoff from the same aerodrome. During the takeoff roll, the aircraft struck a hole in the runway surface, resulting in a loss of control on the ground and causing the aircraft to veer off the runway. The impact caused significant damage to the aircraft's underside and propeller, and the tail cone was severed. The two crew members on board were uninjured.
The investigation
The investigation established that the Ceres Aerodrome was officially closed at the time of the occurrence, as indicated by a NOTAM (F3652/2012) active from November 29, 2012, to February 28, 2013, due to operational risks. Standard signage was also present at both runway ends indicating the aerodrome was impracticable.
While the crew faced weather challenges on their route, the investigation noted that the planned alternate, Goianésia, reported calm winds and no precipitation. Furthermore, meteorological information from Brasília and Goiânia indicated favorable visual flight conditions. The investigation confirmed that the pilots held valid medical certificates and qualifications, and the aircraft was airworthy and within weight and balance limits.
Findings
- The crew elected to land at the Ceres Aerodrome despite the active NOTAM and physical signage indicating the facility was closed and impracticable.
- The aircraft struck a hole in the runway during the takeoff roll, leading to the loss of control.
- Meteorological conditions on the route included occasional cloudiness with embedded cumulonimbus clouds.