What happened
On August 21, 2016, a Beechcraft V3/V35B (registration PT-KEX) was performing a private flight from Fazenda Travessão (SIFT) to Bom Futuro (SIAQ) in Mato Grosso, Brazil. The flight involved one pilot and two passengers.
During the takeoff roll at SIFT, the pilot felt an impact involving the nose landing gear. Due to the aircraft being near rotation speed at the time of the impact, the pilot elected to continue the takeoff and diverted to the Santo Antônio de Leverger (SWLV) aerodrome, which was deemed more suitable for an emergency landing.
Upon arrival at SWLV, the pilot chose to land on a grassy area adjacent to the runway. After touchdown, the aircraft traveled approximately 40 meters before capsizing. The accident resulted in substantial damage to the aircraft, while the pilot and two passengers sustained minor injuries.
The investigation
The investigation by SERIPA VI established that the pilot was properly licensed, qualified, and medically certified. The aircraft was airworthy and operating within weight and balance limits. Meteorological conditions were favorable for flight.
Investigators found that the nose landing gear was not locked in the down position at the moment of touchdown. While the manufacturer's emergency procedures for a fully retracted gear suggest landing on firm grass, the investigation noted that the aircraft was in a partial gear configuration, which was not specifically covered by the manufacturer's manual. Furthermore, the investigation revealed that the maintenance and inspection of the private runway at SIFT had been neglected due to a decrease in flight frequency, leaving irregularities or stones undetected.
Findings
- The pilot's decision-making process regarding the landing surface contributed to the accident.
- The lack of regular runway inspections and maintenance at the departure airfield (SIFT) allowed for unidentifiable hazards to remain on the surface.
- The choice to land on a grass strip in a partial gear configuration, rather than prioritizing an asphalt runway, was a contributing factor.
- The aircraft's manual did not provide specific procedures for landing with a partially extended nose gear.