What happened
On August 8, 2004, a Cessna 140, registration PP-DBT, was performing a flight training mission from Carlos Prates Aerodrome (SBPR) to Pará de Minas (SNPA). During the return leg, the crew prepared for landing on runway 09. While the crew had been informed of calm winds earlier in the approach, updated reports indicated a wind direction of 360 degrees at 6 knots by the time they reached the final approach.
The aircraft touched down safely in the first third of the runway. However, during the landing roll, the aircraft was hit by a gust of tailwind and left crosswind, causing the plane to float. In an attempt to maintain control, the pilot applied power, which caused the aircraft to lift slightly off the ground. Following this second contact, the aircraft struggled to maintain the centerline due to the prevailing left crosswind and began drifting toward the right side of the runway.
Observing the runway markings at the opposite end and evaluating the remaining distance, the instructor decided to intentionally steer the aircraft off the right side of the runway into the grassy area, believing it was the safest way to stop the aircraft. The aircraft exited the paved surface and came to a halt after traveling only a few meters into the grass. The impact with the uneven terrain caused the left landing gear to lock and break, subsequently leading to damage to the left wing and propeller. The two crew members escaped without injury, but the aircraft sustained severe damage.
The investigation
CENIPA's investigation focused on the flight crew's actions and the environmental conditions at the time of the accident. Investigators examined the wind reports provided by the Carlos Prates radio, the flight history of the pilots, and the maintenance records of the aircraft. The investigation also looked into the organizational oversight of the flight school, noting that the instructor, while qualified, did not have an employment bond with the academy and had not received specific type training for the Cessna 140.
Findings
- The flight crew lacked significant experience in this specific aircraft model.
- The instructor's decision to steer off the runway was a contributing factor, as there was likely sufficient runway remaining to stop within the pavement.
- Inadequate application of flight controls by the crew prevented the aircraft from being maintained within the runway limits.
- The presence of a tailwind and left crosswind gust contributed to the loss of directional control.
- A lack of managerial supervision regarding instructor training and standardized procedures was identified as a contributing factor.