What happened
On October 7, 2011, a Cessna C550, registration PT-LJJ, was performing a transport flight from Pampulha to Manhuaçu (SNJM) with two crew members and three passengers on board. Upon landing on runway 20, the crew encountered difficulties decelerating the aircraft. The pilot attempted to use the engine thrust reversers twice; however, the first attempt was unsuccessful. During the second attempt, the main landing gear tire burst despite the operation of the anti-skid system.
Unable to stop within the remaining runway distance, the aircraft overran the threshold of runway 20, striking a fence and entering a coffee plantation. The aircraft sustained substantial damage to the fuselage, wings, and landing gear. The crew and two passengers were uninjured, while one passenger sustained minor injuries.
The investigation
The investigation conducted by CENIPA examined the aircraft's mechanical systems, including the brakes, thrust reversers, speed brakes, and anti-skid system. Post-accident testing and witness video footage confirmed that the thrust reversers were functioning normally at the time of the accident.
Investigators also analyzed the runway characteristics, noting that runway 20 featured a significant downward gradient. The investigation focused on the pilot's deceleration techniques and the timing of brake application. It was noted that the pilot had a practice of avoiding the use of brakes to reduce wear on the equipment, relying instead on thrust reversers.
Findings
- The primary contributing factor was the late application of the normal braking system, which significantly increased the required landing distance.
- The pilot's judgment was compromised by a habitual practice of decelerating the aircraft using only thrust reversers to preserve the braking system.
- The steep gradient of the runway made thrust reversers less effective, making the use of mechanical brakes essential for a safe stop.
- The pilot's attention was diverted by the perceived failure of the thrust reversers, leading to the delayed use of the brakes.