What happened
On July 16, 2005, at approximately 11:30 local time, a PIPER PA 36-375 «Bravo», registration EC-EBQ, was performing the first of several scheduled agricultural spraying flights from an improvised runway at the Veta de La Palma estate near Isla Mayor, Seville. The aircraft was operated by Trabajos Aéreos Marismeños, S.A. (TAMSA).
The pilot initiated the takeoff roll using fully extended flaps. During the acceleration phase, the pilot noted that the aircraft failed to reach rotation speed and felt as though the aircraft was heavier than the estimated 750 kg of payload indicated. Fearing the end of the usable runway was approaching, the pilot decided to abort the takeoff and apply the brakes.
As the pilot attempted to steer the aircraft toward a dirt path to the right of the compacted runway, the right wing struck tall reeds (carrizo) located between the path and an irrigation canal. This contact slowed the right side of the aircraft, causing it to veer into the canal. As the right wheel sank into the water, the sudden braking force, combined with the momentum of the high-density payload positioned over the main gear, caused the aircraft to capsize and come to rest upside down.
The investigation
The CIAIAC investigation examined the aircraft's maintenance records, the pilot's credentials, and the physical characteristics of the runway. The investigation confirmed that the aircraft's maintenance was up to date and that the pilot held a valid commercial license with agricultural ratings.
Investigators analyzed the takeoff performance, noting that the aircraft was likely operating near its maximum takeoff weight (MTOW) of 2,175 kg due to the high fuel load required for the day's operations. Calculations indicated that at MTOW, the required takeoff distance was approximately 580 meters, leaving a margin of only 70 meters on the 650-meter compacted section of the runway.
Findings
- The pilot attempted the takeoff with flaps fully extended, a practice that increases aerodynamic drag and extends the takeoff roll.
- The aircraft was operating at a weight near its maximum takeoff weight, significantly reducing the safety margin for the available runway length.
- The pilot did not verify the effective length of the runway during flight preparations.
- The decision to abort the takeoff led the aircraft into an area of vegetation, which caused the loss of directional control and subsequent entry into the irrigation canal.