Embraer EMB 810D lands with landing gear retracted at Campina Grande Aeroclube

Casualties unknown • CAMPINA GRANDE, PB, BR

An Embraer EMB 810D operated by the Government of Paraíba landed with its landing gear retracted during a second approach at SNKB aerodrome.

What happened

On January 25, 2013, an Embraer EMB 810D, registration PP-EPG, departed from João Pessoa (SBJP) carrying a pilot and three passengers. The flight was intended to transport a government official for the State of Paraíba to the Aeroclube de Campina Grande (SNKB).

Upon the initial approach to the unpaved runway, the pilot observed a narrowing of the runway approximately 500 meters beyond the threshold. Due to this obstacle, the pilot performed a touchdown and immediately attempted a ground loop/go-around to avoid running off the runway. Following this maneuver, the pilot retracted the landing gear and adjusted the flaps to 25 degrees. During the subsequent second approach, the pilot intended to perform a short landing but failed to use the aircraft checklist. Consequently, the aircraft touched down with the landing gear in the retracted position, causing damage to the propeller blades and the lower fuselage. All four occupants were uninjured.

The investigation

CENIPA's investigation examined the pilot's recent flight experience and the operational conditions at the destination aerodrome. The investigation noted that while the pilot was qualified and held valid medical and technical certifications, he had not landed at the Campina Grande Aeroclube in over ten years. The investigation also assessed the state of the SNKB aerodrome, finding that the runway boundaries were poorly defined due to encroaching vegetation and that the airfield lacked adequate perimeter security, with pedestrian and vehicle tracks crossing the runway.

Findings

  • The pilot failed to use the aircraft checklist during the second approach, leading to the omission of the landing gear extension command.
  • The pilot's approach profile was characterized by a low descent rate and high power settings (26 to 28 inches) to maintain 85 knots, which was influenced by the presence of tall trees near the runway threshold.
  • The aerodrome infrastructure at SNKB was compromised by inadequate isolation, presence of animals, and poorly defined runway edges.
  • The pilot was experiencing significant anxiety due to a pending job opportunity with the State Government.

Probable cause

The primary cause of the accident was the pilot's failure to follow standard operating procedures, specifically the omission of the landing gear extension during the second approach due to a failure to utilize the aircraft checklist.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 2013-01-25 aircraft accident near CAMPINA GRANDE, PB, BR?

An Embraer EMB 810D operated by the Government of Paraíba landed with its landing gear retracted during a second approach at SNKB aerodrome.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 2013-01-25 involved a aircraft, registration PPEPG, at CAMPINA GRANDE, PB, BR.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The primary cause of the accident was the pilot's failure to follow standard operating procedures, specifically the omission of the landing gear extension during the second approach due to a failure to utilize the aircraft checklist.

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