What happened
On March 3, 2016, at approximately 19:40 UTC, a Cirrus SR22, registration PR-GDV, was performing a private flight from Campo de Marte Aerodrome in São Paulo to Americana Aerodrome (SDAI). The flight carried a pilot and one passenger.
During the landing phase at runway 30, the aircraft touched down near the midpoint of the runway. The runway surface was wet at the time of the operation. Following touchdown, the pilot attempted to apply the brakes, but the aircraft failed to decelerate sufficiently, leading to a loss of directional control. The aircraft overran the end of runway 12, striking a perimeter fence before coming to a stop. Both occupants of the Cirag SR22 were uninjured, though the aircraft sustained substantial damage.
The investigation
CENIPA investigators examined the braking system and the runway conditions to determine why the aircraft failed to stop. The investigation confirmed that the hydraulic braking system was structurally intact, with no leaks or component failures found. Tests performed with the aircraft on jacks demonstrated that the master cylinders and brake pads were functioning correctly. While investigators noted evidence of overheating on the brake discs and one activated temperature indicator, they concluded these were likely triggered during the landing itself.
Investigators also analyzed the tire pressures, finding them to be at 54 psi and 53 psi, which was below the manufacturer's recommended specification of 62 psi (+2/-0). The investigation compared the aircraft's landing performance requirements against the actual touchdown point and the wet runway conditions.
Findings
- Dynamic hydroplaning was identified as the most probable cause of the runway excursion. The combination of a wet runway, an unstabilized approach, and low tire pressure reduced the NASA critical speed, causing the tires to lose contact with the pavement.
- The pilot's judgment contributed to the accident, as the landing was performed on a wet runway following an approach that was above the prescribed glide slope.
- The pilot's inadequate use of flight controls contributed to the excursion.
- The pilot's relatively low experience in this specific model (60 hours) was noted as a contributing factor.