What happened
On December 1, 2004, at approximately 19:59 UTC, an Aerobuero 180RVR, registration PP-GLI, was performing a local flight instruction mission at Blumenau Aerodrome (SSBL) in Santa Catarina, Brazil. The flight was being conducted for the purpose of Private Pilot License training, with an instructor and a student on board.
As the aircraft approached rotation speed, the student pilot lost the centerline of the runway. In an attempt to correct the deviation, the student applied the left rudder pedal while simultaneously pressing the brake. Due to the design of the aircraft, the brake is located at the lower portion of the pedal assembly. This unexpected braking action caused the aircraft to veer toward the left side of the runway.
After exiting the paved surface, the aircraft struck several obstacles and underwent a nose-over (pilonamento), coming to rest on its back. The impact resulted in substantial damage to the engine and propeller. Both occupants of the aircraft were uninjured.
The investigation
The investigation focused on the sequence of control inputs and the experience levels of the crew. Investigators examined the aircraft's braking and directional control systems and found no mechanical discrepancies or malfunctions. The investigation also reviewed the flight crew's credentials, noting that both pilots held valid medical and technical certificates.
Analysis of the crew's experience revealed that both the instructor and the student had limited flight time. At the time of the accident, the instructor had a total of 193 flight hours, only 27 of which were in this specific aircraft model. The investigation established that the instructor attempted to take control to counteract the deviation, but the sudden application of the brake by the student prevented an effective recovery.
Findings
- Improper application of flight controls during the takeoff roll.
- Lack of cockpit coordination between the instructor and the student.
- Limited flight experience of the instructor in the specific aircraft type.