What happened
On March 18, 2016, a Beechcraft C90, registration PP-JBL, was operating a flight from Teresina, PI, to Floriano, PI, carrying a pilot and seven passengers. During the flight, the pilot encountered unfavorable meteorological conditions and decided to divert to an uncertified aerodrome in Oeiras, PI.
The runway at the Oeiras site was composed of gravel/dirt and was notably wet with standing water due to recent heavy rainfall. Upon touchdown on runway 11, the pilot lost directional control during the landing roll. The aircraft veered to the left, exiting the runway boundaries and striking bushes in irregular terrain. The aircraft came to a stop approximately ten meters from the left edge of the runway, positioned 90 degrees from the intended landing path. The impact caused substantial damage to both engines, both propellers, the landing gear, wings, ailerons, and flaps. While the pilot and six passengers were uninjured, one passenger sustained minor injuries.
The investigation
CENIPA's investigation focused on the pilot's decision-making and the runway conditions. Investigators established that the pilot was fully qualified, held valid IFR ratings, and the aircraft was airworthy and within weight limits. However, the investigation revealed that the pilot chose to land at an aerodrome that was not registered or approved by ANAC for operations.
Analysis of the flight planning showed that the pilot had sufficient fuel to return to the origin or proceed to the filed alternate, and the aircraft was equipped with functional weather radar. The investigation also noted the presence of a police team at the uncertified site prior to the landing, suggesting the aircraft's actual destination was the uncertified strip to receive a government official. Investigators examined the possibility of hydroplaning due to the standing water on the runway, as well as the potential for incorrect control inputs during the use of brakes and reversers.
Findings
- Decision-making failures: The pilot failed to correctly assess the risks associated with landing on an uncertified, contaminated runway.
- Flight indiscipline: The crew operated at an uncertified aerodrome in violation of civil aviation regulations.
- Environmental factors: The presence of water and puddles on the runway likely caused hydroplaning, which compromised directional control and braking efficiency.
- Inadequate risk assessment: The pilot did not properly consider how the wet surface would affect the aircraft's stability during the landing roll.