What happened
On 24 September 2020, an Aeroprakt-22LS, registration A6-XSM, operated by Al Jazirah Aviation Club, was performing a private flight near Ras Al Khaimah. During the landing phase at Al Jazirah Aerodrome, the pilot attempted a go-around after the aircraft bounced upon touchdown.
As the aircraft transitioned back into the air, it maintained a high pitch attitude and experienced significant rolling motions. The aircraft traveled approximately 162 meters before the right wing made contact with the ground, roughly 93 meters from the runway end. The aircraft subsequently slid across the ground, coming to a stop 14 meters left of the runway edge. There were no injuries to the pilot or the passenger, though the aircraft sustained significant damage to its wings, landing gear, and propeller.
The investigation
Investigators from the GCAA AAIS reviewed aerodrome camera footage, maintenance records, and pilot training history. The investigation confirmed that the aircraft was airworthy and the engine was producing full power during the maneuver. Meteorological data showed that while a slight crosswind was present, it was within the aircraft's design limits.
Review of the pilot's records showed a significant gap in flight activity prior to the accident, with no flying performed between December 2019 and September 2020. While the pilot had recently completed a proficiency check, investigators found that the check did not adequately assess the pilot's ability to manage low-energy, high-risk maneuvers like a baulked landing.
Findings
- The primary cause of the accident was a loss of control resulting from decreasing airspeed during a baulked landing attempt.
- The aircraft was in a high pitch attitude with insufficient airspeed to maintain flight after the initial ground contact.
- The pilot's proficiency check failed to identify deficiencies in landing technique and handling skills specifically related to go-around scenarios.
- The aircraft was not equipped with an aural stall warning system, leaving the pilot to rely solely on visual cues to monitor airspeed and pitch.
Safety action
Following the investigation, a safety recommendation (SR01/2021) was issued to the Al Jazirah Aviation Club to revise its proficiency check procedures. The goal is to ensure that pilot training specifically includes adequate practice for landing, baulked landings, and go-around maneuvers as outlined in the Pilot Operating Handbook.