What happened
On August 5, 2025, a private Beechcraft A36 Bonanza, registration N4970M, was conducting a training flight involving a departure from Carrasco International Airport (SUMU) to Laguna Sauce (SULS) and a subsequent return. During the final approach to runway 19 at SUMU, the pilot executed a reduced pattern, which limited the time available to configure the aircraft for landing.
As the aircraft approached the runway threshold, it made contact with the pavement with the landing gear still retracted. The impact caused the propeller blades to strike the concrete, resulting in an abrupt engine stoppage. The aircraft slid for approximately 82 meters along the runway centerline before coming to a halt after a slight deviation to the right. Both the pilot and the passenger evacuated the aircraft without injury. There was no fire during the event.
The investigation
The CIAIA investigation examined the aircraft's mechanical condition, the pilot's performance, and the airport's emergency response. Investigators confirmed that the aircraft's landing gear indicators and the audible gear-up warning system were fully functional. Post-accident inspections revealed that once the aircraft was lifted by a crane, the landing gear extended and locked normally.
The investigation also scrutinized the airport's Emergency Plan (PEA). It was established that the air traffic controller did not immediately trigger the required alert following the landing. Furthermore, the emergency services were not notified of a formal "Alert 3" until six minutes after the accident, leading to a delayed response from firefighting units.
Findings
- The pilot performed a reduced approach pattern, which compressed the time available for the necessary landing configuration.
- The landing gear was not extended prior to touchdown.
- The aircraft sustained substantial damage to the propeller, flaps, and the lower forward fuselage due to friction with the runway.
- The airport's air traffic control personnel failed to act in accordance with the established PEA regarding the immediate declaration of an emergency.
- The delay in declaring an official alert hindered the timely deployment of firefighting resources.
Safety action
- To the Pilot: Adhere strictly to aircraft checklists to ensure operational safety during all flight phases.
- To the Civil Aviation Authority: Review the performance of air traffic control and emergency response personnel at SUMU to ensure compliance with established procedures for providing immediate assistance during accidents at international airports.