What happened
On June 27, 2024, a student pilot was conducting a solo instructional flight in a Cessna A150M, registration CX-CBJ, originating from SUMU. The flight plan involved a coastal flight at 1,500 feet, followed by a landing and go-around maneuver at SULS (Carlos A. Curbelo International Airport).
During the landing phase on runway 01, the pilot utilized 20 degrees of flaps. Although the aircraft initially touched down on the first third of the runway with all three wheels in contact, the pilot lost control after traveling approximately 200 meters along the runway. The aircraft veered to the left, striking a "Taxiway B" sign with the right wing strut. The excursion continued across the grass runway strip for more and more than 50 meters before the aircraft came to a halt in a ditch. The impact caused the left main gear to enter the ditch, leading to contact between the lower rear fuselage and the ground, as well as a minor fuel leak from the left wing vent. The pilot exited the aircraft without injury.
The investigation
The CIAIA investigation examined the aircraft's maintenance records, the pilot's experience, and the meteorological conditions at the time of the incident. The investigation confirmed that the Cessna A150M had a valid airworthiness certificate and that maintenance logs were complete. The pilot, a student with approximately 47 flight hours, was performing a solo flight as part of a private pilot course.
Investigators also analyzed the wind conditions, noting a 16-knot wind from 330° at the time of the incident. While the lateral component of the wind (approximately 10.3 knots) was within the manufacturer's maximum limit of 13 knots, the investigation looked into potential turbulence caused by terminal buildings and the control tower located upwind.
Findings
- The pilot was unable to maintain directional control of the aircraft after the initial touchdown.
- The pilot could not recall the specific manufacturer-established crosswind limitations for the aircraft.
- Potential turbulence generated by airport structures (terminal and control tower) may have contributed to the loss of control.
- The aircraft sustained damage to the right strut, the tail cone, and the lower rear fuselage structure.