What happened
On November 25, 2001, a Beechcraft BE-100, registration PT-DNP, was performing a flight from Goiânia to the private airfield at Buriti Alegre, Goiás. During the approach to runway 05, the pilot attempted to extend the flaps, but the system circuit breakers tripped twice. Consequently, the pilot decided to proceed with a landing without flaps.
During the short final approach, the aircraft lost altitude and the main landing gear collided with a retaining wall located 15 meters before the runway threshold. The impact tore the landing gear from the aircraft. The pilot applied power, causing the aircraft to fly for an additional 500 meters before touching the ground a second time without its gear. The aircraft slid along the runway centerline until it came to a complete stop, at which point a fire broke out under the left wing. All six occupants (the pilot and five passengers) evacuated the aircraft safely before the fire consumed the airframe.
The investigation
CENIPA's investigation focused on the pilot's decision-making and the approach profile. The investigation established that while the pilot was highly experienced and held valid licenses, the lack of recent professional training or periodic emergency procedure updates left him vulnerable during an abnormal operation. The investigation also noted that the airfield lacked an emergency plan and firefighting services, which allowed the fire to destroy the aircraft.
Findings
- The pilot utilized a shallow approach angle on the short final, which, combined with a loss of altitude, led to the collision with the obstacle.
- The landing without flaps required a higher approach speed to maintain lift, a factor that was not adequately compensated for by the pilot's flight path.
- Improper judgment regarding the approach slope and speed requirements for a flapless landing was the primary contributing factor.
- The aircraft was operating within weight and center of gravity limits, but was heavily fueled for a short 30-minute flight.
- The absence of firefighting equipment at the airfield contributed to the total loss of the aircraft.