What happened
On May 4, 2010, an Aeromot AMT-600, registration PR-MCS, departed from Porto Nacional Aerodrome (SBPN) for a local flight to check aircraft components. Shortly after takeoff from runway 05, the pilot noticed erratic indications on the airspeed indicator, altimeter, and vertical speed indicator. Additionally, the pilot perceived insufficient engine power to maintain level flight.
Fearing a loss of lift, the pilot executed a 180-degree turn to return to the airfield, landing on the opposite runway, 23. The aircraft touched down past the midpoint of the runway. Upon application of the brakes during the landing roll, only the left main brake functioned. This asymmetric braking caused the aircraft to lose directional control and veer off the left side of the runway into uneven terrain. The impact resulted in severe damage to the right main landing gear and the nose gear, though the pilot and passenger remained uninjured.
The investigation
CENIPA's investigation revealed that the aircraft had been stationary for approximately 11 months prior to the accident due to documentation issues, and manufacturer-recommended engine preservation procedures had not been followed. Furthermore, the static pressure port covers were missing and had not been replaced.
The investigation also uncovered significant organizational deficiencies at the Aeroclube de Porto Nacional. Maintenance tasks were being performed by unqualified personnel, and there was a lack of effective safety oversight by the club's management. Notably, the aircraft's right main gear and nose gear were removed for repair by the operator before investigators arrived, which prevented a technical evaluation of the braking system failure.
Findings
- The pilot's decision-making contributed to the event, as he executed a premature return to the runway without exhausting all options for a safe landing.
- The pilot's judgment was impacted by unreliable instrument readings, leading to a landing touchdown point that required maximum braking effort.
- The failure of the right brake during the landing roll was a primary factor in the runway excursion.
- Organizational culture deficiencies were present, specifically the practice of allowing unauthorized personnel to perform maintenance and a lack of safety management tools.
- Inadequate management supervision allowed for improper aircraft storage and maintenance practices.