What happened
On August 4, 2007, an Aeromot AMT-200, registration PP-KDW, was performing a maintenance ferry flight from Caruaru to the Encanta Moça Aerodrome in Recife, Pernambuco. The flight was intended to transport the aircraft to a maintenance facility for its annual inspection; although the aircraft's inspection was overdue, the operator had obtained specific authorization from ANAC for this leg.
During the final approach to runway 16, the crew identified a dog on the runway moving on a path that converged with the aircraft. To avoid a collision, the pilot executed a rightward correction. As the aircraft approached the ground, the pilot attempted to stabilize the flight path but was unable to return to the runway centerline. Following a float and a low-speed touchdown on the right side of the runway, the pilot applied excessive left rudder. This maneuver caused the aircraft to swing toward the opposite side of the runway.
The aircraft struck the ground with a heavy, misaligned impact, subjecting the landing gear to intense lateral forces. This resulted in the failure of both landing gear struts. The aircraft then veered off the left side of the runway, causing substantial damage to the landing gear, the propeller, and the engine, including damage to the lubrication system. Both the pilot and the passenger were uninjured.
The investigation
CENIPA's investigation focused on the pilot's decision-making and the airfield's infrastructure. Investigators examined the sequence of control inputs and the environmental conditions at the time of the accident. The investigation also looked into the security of the aerodrome perimeter, noting that a section of the boundary wall was collapsed, which allowed animals to enter the runway area.
Findings
- The pilot's decision not to execute a go-around was influenced by the aircraft's low altitude and low airspeed following the initial avoidance maneuver.
- The pilot's use of excessive rudder inputs contributed to the loss of directional control on the runway.
- The pilot demonstrated imprecise judgment and perception regarding the risks of attempting a landing while a wildlife collision threat was present.
- The lack of adequate perimeter security at the aerodrome allowed animals to access the runway.
- There were failures in managerial supervision at the aerodrome, as operations were permitted without ensuring ideal safety conditions.
- The aircraft's landing gear, propeller, and engine sustained significant damage due to the lateral impact and excursion.