What happened
On October 20, 2013, at approximately 18:40 UTC, a Beechcraft 23, registration PT-BXE, was conducting a local touch-and-go training flight at the Sítio Pouso do Aviador Aerodrome (SSAY) in Campo Grande, Mato Grosso do Sul. The flight involved two crew members performing maneuvers to practice landings and go-arounds.
During the third landing attempt of the session, the aircraft lost directional control immediately after touchdown. The aircraft veered toward the left side of the runway, exiting the paved surface and colliding with a wire fence. The impact caused substantial damage to the aircraft, specifically affecting the wings and the right landing gear. Both occupants were able to exit the aircraft without injury.
The investigation
CENIPA investigators examined the cockpit dynamics and the mechanical state of the aircraft. While the crew members held valid medical certificates and technical ratings, the investigation revealed a lack of clearly defined roles during the flight. The aircraft owner, acting as the pilot in command, had approximately 12 hours of experience in this specific model, while the second crew member, despite holding a Flight Instructor rating, was performing his first flight in this aircraft type.
Conflicting accounts were noted regarding cockpit management. The owner stated that the second crew member was providing instruction, though the second pilot claimed he was merely accompanying the flight and not performing any specific function. Furthermore, while the pilot in command reported that the aircraft failed to respond to rudder inputs and felt as though the right pedal was jammed, post-accident inspections found no evidence of mechanical failure or jammed controls.
Findings
- Lack of cockpit coordination and undefined roles between the two crew members.
- Inadequate flight planning regarding the transition of responsibilities during instruction.
- Improper application of controls during the critical phase of the landing.
- The aircraft was within weight and balance limits, and all required airworthiness documentation was up to date.
- Meteorological conditions were favorable for VFR operations, with calm winds.