What happened
On December 3, 2017, a Cessna 175, registration PT-BBN, was performing a local flight departing from the Piracicaba Aerodrome (SDPW) in São Paulo, Brazil. During the landing phase, the aircraft experienced an abnormal contact with the runway. The impact caused the main landing gear to detach and resulted in the propeller blades striking the asphalt surface, leading to a sudden engine stoppage. The person operating the aircraft sustained minor injuries, while the aircraft suffered substantial damage.
The investigation
The investigation, conducted by SERIPA IV, focused on the sequence of events and the regulatory status of the flight. Investigators examined the mechanical state of the aircraft and the credentials of the operator. The investigation was ultimately interrupted because the operation was found to be in direct violation of established aeronautical legislation, meaning that further analysis would not yield new preventive knowledge beyond the enforcement of existing regulations.
Findings
- The operator did not possess a valid pilot license or a valid Aeronautical Medical Certificate (CME).
- The aircraft's Certificate of Airworthiness (CA) had been expired since November 30, 1999.
- The meteorological conditions at the time of the occurrence were favorable for flight.
- The primary cause of the accident was the abnormal contact with the runway during landing.