What happened
On January 10, 2009, a student pilot was performing his first solo flight at Charleroi Brussels South Airport. After completing several successful training circuits with an instructor, the student proceeded to perform touch-and-go maneuvers alone. Following a successful landing, the student prepared for takeoff on the taxiway.
As the pilot applied rudder input in anticipation of increased engine thrust, the Beechcraft 77, registration OO-PBL, began veering toward the left side of the runway. Despite increased rudder pressure, the aircraft failed to maintain its centerline. In an attempt to take off before exiting the runway area, the pilot applied full throttle. The aircraft subsequently struck a 60cm-high accumulation of snow and a signalization sign with its left wing. The impact caused the nose to pitch down, leading to a propeller strike on the ground. The pilot, who sustained no injuries, successfully shut down the engine and evacuated the aircraft.
The investigation
The AAIU(Be) examined the aircraft's mechanical condition, the pilot's footwear, and the airport's snow removal procedures. Investigators found that the aircraft was airworthy and no technical malfunctions were present. The investigation focused on the pilot's lack of experience and the physical sensations transmitted through the rudder pedals. Additionally, the team reviewed the airport's maintenance manual regarding the clearance of snow from taxiway intersections.
Findings
- The primary cause of the accident was the inadequate footwear worn by the student pilot and his limited flight experience, which likely led to unintentional control inputs.
- The student was wearing heavy mountain shoes, which reduced tactile feedback through the rudder pedals.
- The aircraft's nose wheel steering mechanism may not have engaged effectively because insufficient weight was being applied to the nose gear during the takeoff roll.
- A contributing factor was the presence of a snow bank near the runway/taxiway intersection, which suggested a potential deviation from the airport's established snow removal procedures.
- Inconsistent instruction from various flight instructors during the student's training may have contributed to pilot confusion.
Safety action
- The AAIU(Be) issued a recommendation to flight training schools to emphasize the importance of selecting appropriate footwear. Instructors should verify that students are wearing suitable shoes before flight operations begin to ensure proper control sensitivity.