What happened
On July 8, 2007, at 16:08 UTC, a Cessna 180J, registration PT-IRY, was performing a private flight from Campo Grande (SBCG) to Nioaque (SSVV) with a pilot and three passengers on board. During the takeoff roll on runway 06, the pilot noticed the aircraft drifting toward the right side of the runway. In an attempt to maintain the centerline, the pilot applied significant rudder and braking inputs. This sudden corrective action caused the aircraft to pivot sharply to the left, resulting in a 225-degree turn. During this maneuver, the right wheel hub failed under the intense mechanical stress, causing the right tire to burst and the landing gear leg to collapse. The aircraft traveled 93 meters before coming to a complete stop, sustaining substantial damage. All four occupants were uninjured.
The investigation
The investigation conducted by SERIPA VI examined the mechanical condition of the aircraft and the environmental factors present at the time of the accident. Investigators confirmed that the engine and propeller were fully operational and that the tires were in usable condition prior to the failure. Analysis of the right wheel hub revealed that the component broke due to excessive stress. The investigation also reviewed the meteorological report (METAR), which indicated a wind from 330 degrees at 18 knots. For this specific aircraft model, the maximum allowable crosswind component for takeoff and landing operations is 12 knots.
Findings
- The primary cause of the accident was the inadequate assessment of meteorological conditions, as the pilot proceeded with takeoff despite a crosswind component exceeding the aircraft's operational limits.
- The pilot's decision-making and use of flight controls contributed to the accident; the aggressive use of rudder and brakes to counteract the wind drift placed excessive load on the right landing gear.
- The aircraft's conventional landing gear configuration made it particularly vulnerable to the aerodynamic effects of the high crosswind.
- Contributing factors included errors in pilot judgment and the decision-making process regarding takeoff under adverse weather.