What happened
On November 22, 2008, an Aero Boero AB-115, registration PP-GFC, was performing a private pilot proficiency check at Campo dos Amarais in Campinas, Brazil. The flight was operated by Aeroclube de Campinas and carried two occupants: a student pilot and a certified examiner.
Following landing, the student pilot lost directional control during the landing roll, causing the aircraft to veer toward the right side of runway 16. In an attempt to steer the aircraft back toward the centerline, the nose wheel struck the ground violently. This triggered a porpoising motion, which ultimately caused the propeller to strike the runway surface. The aircraft sustained substantial damage to the propeller and nose gear, though both occupants escaped without injury.
The investigation
CENIPA's investigation confirmed that the aircraft was airworthy, with all maintenance logs and certificates up to date. The aircraft was also within its specified weight and center of gravity limits. The examiner was found to be fully qualified and experienced for the flight type.
The investigation focused on the student pilot's recent flight history and the sequence of control inputs during the landing roll. It was noted that the student had a total flight time of approximately 50 hours, with 31 hours specifically in the AB-115. Notably, the student had not flown for 27 days prior to the accident.
Findings
- The primary cause of the accident was the inappropriate application of flight controls and brakes during the landing roll.
- The student's lack of recent flight experience, following a 27-day hiatus, contributed to the loss of control.
- The examiner's judgment played a role, as they opted to allow the student to attempt corrections without intervening, which led to the irreversible sequence of events.
- Contributing factors included the student's limited overall flight experience and deficiencies in instruction and managerial supervision.