What happened
On October 27, 2013, a Cessna A188B, registration PR-UBJ, departed from the Comandante Gastão Aerodrome (SDVI) in Tangará da معظم, Brazil, for a local flight following a 200-hour inspection. The flight was intended to verify the aircraft's performance after recent maintenance involving the replacement of flight control cables.
Shortly after takeoff, while initiating a left turn, the pilot encountered significant restrictions in the aileron controls. This limitation forced the aircraft into a continuous left-hand turn of nearly 360 degrees near the aerodrome. While the pilot maintained control of the elevator and rudder, the restricted roll capability made it difficult to align the aircraft with runway 15.
During an attempt to realign with the runway, the pilot encountered a nearby residence situated near the runway end. To avoid the structure, the pilot applied power and an excessive pitch-up command. This maneuver resulted in a loss of control and a subsequent impact with the ground, causing substantial damage to the aircraft. The pilot sustained minor injuries.
The investigation
CENIPA investigators examined the wreckage and the aircraft's maintenance history. The investigation noted that the 200-hour inspection, performed by a local workshop, had included the replacement of the aileron control cables. Although the aileron cables were found to be broken due to the impact, their dimensions were consistent with the new cables installed during the recent service, and the tensioner used during installation was properly calibrated.
The pilot reported that the ailerons appeared to move freely during the pre-flight and before-takeoff checklists. Investigators also looked for Foreign Object Damage (FOD) that might have caused the control restriction, but no such objects were found at the scene. Due to the extensive damage to the wing leading edges, a definitive cause for the initial aileron restriction could not be established.
Findings
- The pilot's decision-making during the emergency led to an improper flight profile.
- The pilot failed to execute an appropriate go-around or climb to gain altitude, which would have provided more safety margin to manage the control limitations.
- The excessive pitch input during the attempt to avoid a nearby building directly contributed to the loss of control.
- The investigation identified critical errors in pilot judgment, perception, and decision-making processes during the emergency phase.