What happened
On August 2, 2003, at 17:30 local time, a PZL M-18A, registration EC-FBN, was performing takeoff from the Hiendelaencina airfield in Guadalajara, Spain. The aircraft was engaged in aerial firefighting operations, specifically tasked with transporting water and foam retardant to an active fire.
During the takeoff roll, the pilot applied full power and maintained alignment using right-side braking and right rudder inputs. The aircraft successfully lifted its tail and became airborne. However, immediately after the main landing gear left the runway surface, the aircraft entered a right turn. The pilot attempted to correct the deviation using left rudder and left aileron, but these inputs were ineffective. The aircraft subsequently performed an emergency discharge of its payload.
The aircraft's nose contacted the ground, and the aircraft continued to rotate approximately 270 degrees on its vertical axis. During this excursion, the aircraft struck the perimeter fence, causing damage to several fence posts. The aircraft eventually came to a stop approximately 100 meters from the edge of the runway. The pilot, the sole occupant, was able to exit the aircraft uninjured.
The investigation
Investigators examined the wreckage and the site conditions. The inspection of the PZL M-18A revealed significant damage, including bent propeller blades, a broken left main landing gear, and a detached engine. The structural tubes of the fuselage near the empennage were also deformed. Despite the heavy damage, investigators found no evidence of mechanical failure prior to the accident. The flight controls, including the ailerons and flaps, were found to be in working order, and the engine parameters were reported as correct by the pilot prior to the event.
Environmental factors were also reviewed. The weather was clear with calm winds and temperatures exceeding 30 °C. The runway surface was found to be in good condition with no defects. While other aircraft had taken off shortly before, the ten-minute interval between departures was considered sufficient to allow any wake turbulence to dissipate.
Findings
- The aircraft entered a right turn immediately after the main gear left the ground.
- The aircraft lacked sufficient airspeed to maintain a climb during the turn, as the vertical component of lift could not compensate for the aircraft's weight.
- The pilot's corrective inputs (left rudder and left aileron) were insufficient to counteract the rightward deviation.
- The engine detachment and structural damage occurred as a result of the impact and the subsequent excursion.