What happened
On October 23, 2021, a Maule Aircraft MX-7-180, registration PT-OPP, was performing a private local flight involving touch-and-go training at Aeródromo Fazenda São Lourenço (SIFW) in Corumbá, Mato Grosso. The aircraft was carrying a pilot and one passenger.
During the final approach to runway 12, the pilot encountered a strong right crosswind that caused the aircraft to drift off the runway centerline. While attempting to correct the deviation, the pilot heard the stall warning alarm. In response, the pilot initiated a go-around procedure and retracted the flaps to the 0° position. During this maneuver, the aircraft entered a loss of control, rotating around its longitudinal axis and striking the ground on the right side of the runway. The impact resulted in substantial damage to the aircraft, though both occupants sustained only light injuries.
The investigation
CENIPA's investigation focused on the flight parameters, aircraft configuration, and environmental conditions. The investigation confirmed that the pilot was qualified and held a valid medical certificate. The aircraft was airworthy, with updated maintenance records and a valid airworthiness certificate. However, investigators found that the aircraft's center of gravity was outside the permitted forward limit.
Analysis of the manufacturer's flight manual revealed that for crosswinds equal to or greater than 13 knots, flap extension should be limited to 0°. The pilot had approached with full flaps. Furthermore, the investigation noted that the pilot's decision to retract the flaps during the go-around, while the aircraft was already struggling with wind compensation, led to a loss of lift that contributed to the accident.
Findings
- The pilot's decision-making process and piloting judgment contributed to the accident.
- The retraction of flaps during the go-around reduced wing lift, exacerbating the loss of control.
- The aircraft was operating with a center of gravity outside of the allowable forward limits.
- The pilot attempted to land further down the runway due to surface irregularities, which may have influenced the decision to use full flaps despite the crosswind conditions.