What happened
On June 6, 2021, at 12:17 UTC, a Cirrus SR-22, registration PP-LMT, was attempting to depart from an unregistered landing site in a rural area of Brasnorte, Bahia. The aircraft had previously landed at the site to drop off a passenger and was attempting to return to its origin at Luís Eduardo Magalhães (SWNB).
The pilot attempted a "short field" takeoff due to the limited available runway length of approximately 700 meters. The pilot noted that the surface was in poor condition, containing numerous holes and stones. During the takeoff roll, as the aircraft reached a speed of approximately 55 knots, it drifted to the right. The pilot attempted to correct the deviation using rudder pedals, but was unable to prevent the right wing from striking bushes located at the edge of the landing area. This impact caused a loss of control on the ground, resulting in the aircraft veering right and rotating 220 degrees before coming to a stop.
The investigation
CENIPA's investigation focused on the operational decisions and the suitability of the landing site. The investigation confirmed that the pilot was properly licensed, held a valid medical certificate, and was qualified to operate the aircraft type. Maintenance records for the airframe, engine, and propeller were up to date, and no mechanical failures or maintenance issues were identified as contributing to the accident.
Investigators noted that the landing site was not a registered aerodrome. Under Brazilian Civil Aviation Regulations (RBAC 91), pilots are responsible for ensuring that any aerodrome used is suitable for the aircraft type and the intended operation. The investigation established that by choosing to operate from an unregistered and inadequate strip, the pilot assumed the risks associated with the lack of proper infrastructure.
Findings
- The aircraft sustained substantial damage, including the rupture of the fuselage cone and the left main landing gear strut.
- The pilot and passenger were uninjured.
- The primary cause of the accident was the collision of the right wing with vegetation during the takeoff roll.
- Contributing factors included errors in pilot judgment, perception, attitude, and the application of flight controls.