What happened
On April 12, 2017, a Beechcraft 58, registration PR-MSR, was performing a private flight from Passo Fundo, RS, to the Fazenda da Paz Aerodrome (SIXD) in Santana do Livramento, RS. The aircraft was carrying a pilot and one passenger.
Upon landing, the pilot encountered a tailwind component. During the landing roll, the aircraft failed to decelerate within the available runway limits. In an attempt to avoid exiting the runway, the pilot executed a sharp turn, which resulted in the loss of directional control. The aircraft exited the far end of the runway and came to a stop on a dirt road. Both occupants of the Beechcraft 58 were uninjured, but the aircraft sustained substantial damage.
The investigation
The investigation examined the runway conditions and the aircraft's mechanical state. The runway at SIXD is a grass surface measuring 799 meters. While the pilot reported favorable visibility and low-intensity crosswinds, the investigation noted that the runway surface was likely slippery due to rain the previous day, which would have reduced the coefficient of friction.
Technical inspections confirmed that the aircraft's airworthiness certificate, engine, propeller, and airframe logs were all up to date. No mechanical failures, such as brake malfunctions, were identified. The investigation focused on the landing performance and the pilot's decision-making during the rollout.
Findings
- The primary cause of the accident was an inadequate assessment by the pilot regarding the aircraft's landing requirements and the runway conditions.
- The unpaved, potentially slippery grass surface likely increased the required braking distance.
- The pilot's attempt to execute an emergency maneuver (a sharp turn) contributed to the loss of directional control.