What happened
On May 14, 2020, at approximately 21:40 UTC, a Beechcraft 95-B55, registration PR-OVA, was performing a flight training mission from São José do Rio Preto to Votuporanga, Brazil. The aircraft was operated by Aeroclube de Votuporanga with an instructor and a student pilot on board.
During the landing phase at Votuporanga Aerodrome (SDVG), the aircraft's tailwheel (auxiliary landing gear) retracted immediately after the wheel made contact with the runway. This unexpected retraction caused the aircraft to strike the nose and propellers directly against the ground. The impact resulted in substantial damage to the aircraft, though both occupants escaped without injury.
The investigation
CENIPA investigators examined the aircraft's landing gear assembly and the specific components involved in the retraction. The investigation focused on the steering mechanism and the condition of the tires. Technical analysis of the steering link was performed by the Materials Division of the Aerospace Science and Technology Department (DCTA).
Investigators found that the steering link of the auxiliary landing gear had suffered a fracture. Visual and stereoscopic analysis revealed significant material deformation consistent with buckling caused by excessive axial compressive stress. Furthermore, the investigation noted that the auxiliary tire was deflated, with the bead separated from the wheel rim, and exhibited irregular wear on the right side of the tread.
Findings
- The investigation identified a fracture of the steering link due to overload.
- The steering link showed evidence of buckling caused by excessive compressive force.
- The auxiliary tire was found to be empty (deflated), which likely increased friction with the runway surface during the landing roll.
- It is possible that the deflated tire acted as a physical obstruction, creating additional structural stress that contributed to the component failure.
- The investigation noted that, given the nature of flight training operations, the aircraft may have been subjected to occasional hard landings over time, potentially degrading the landing gear mechanism.
- The pilots were fully qualified with valid medical certificates and licenses for the operation.