What happened
On June 14, 2024, at approximately 15:16 UTC, a Cirrus SR22, registration PP-AFK, was performing a takeoff from Aeródromo Fazenda Canaã (SD7E) in Teresina, Brazil. The aircraft was operating a private flight for passenger transport, carrying a pilot and four passengers.
During the takeoff roll, the aircraft initially drifted slightly to the left. As the airspeed reached approximately 50 knots, the aircraft exhibited a strong tendency to pitch up. The nose wheel lifted prematurely, causing the lower part of the tail cone to strike the runway. This impact triggered a right wing dip, leading to the right wingtip and the underside of the right elevator making contact with the pavement. The pilot attempted to correct the movement by reducing power and applying left control, which leveled the wings but could not prevent the aircraft from veering off the right side of the runway and colliding with an earthen embankment. The engine was shut down via the mixture control before the aircraft came to a complete stop.
The investigation
CENIPA investigators examined the aircraft's maintenance records, the pilot's training history, and the environmental conditions at the time of the accident. The investigation confirmed that the pilot was properly licensed and qualified, and the aircraft's airworthiness documentation was up to date. Meteorological reports indicated favorable conditions, with a dry runway and temperatures around 32°C.
Technical analysis focused on the aircraft's weight and balance. Investigators determined that the aircraft was operating outside of its approved weight and balance envelope. Specifically, the center of gravity (CG) was located behind the aft limit on the longitudinal axis. This "tail-heavy" condition created an unstable longitudinal state, leading to an uncommanded "self-rotation" as aerodynamic pressure increased during the takeoff roll. The investigation also reviewed the pilot's decision-making process, noting that the pilot had suspected the aircraft might be at its maximum takeoff weight during pre-flight preparations.
Findings
- The aircraft was operating outside of its approved weight and balance limits.
- The center of gravity was located beyond the aft limit, causing longitudinal instability and an uncommanded pitch-up tendency.
- The pilot failed to abort the takeoff despite recognizing the potential risk of exceeding weight limits.
- Human factors included improper flight planning and inadequate judgment, driven by self-imposed pressure to satisfy passengers and maintain a professional relationship with the aircraft owner.
- The aircraft sustained substantial damage, but all five occupants were uninjured.