What happened
On June 28, 2015, at approximately 2:00 p.m., two Cessna A-188B aircraft, registrations HI-854 and HI-916, were involved in a mid-air collision at the FUMCA, S.R.L. airfield in Boca de Mao, Valverde, Dominican Republic. The incident occurred during a fly-in event where the aircraft were performing aerial demonstrations.
Following the demonstration, the aircraft began landing procedures. The pilot of HI-854 landed first. However, the pilot of HI-916 attempted to land without waiting for the first aircraft to vacate the active runway. During this maneuver, the second aircraft attempted to pass over the first at an angle of approximately 60 degrees relative to the runway axis. This maneuver caused the pilot of HI-916 to lose altitude, leading the aircraft's main landing gear to strike the canopy and vertical stabilizer of HI-854.
Both pilots were uninjured. The HI-854 sustained significant damage, including a broken vertical stabilizer and damage to the upper canopy, while the HI-916 remained intact.
The investigation
The CIAA investigation examined the human, material, and physical factors involved in the collision. Investigators reviewed pilot licenses, maintenance records, and meteorological data. The investigation noted that the aircraft had been moved from their original positions prior to the arrival of the commission, and the operator had performed repairs on HI-854 without authorization from the competent authorities.
Technical analysis confirmed that both aircraft were airworthy, with recent 100-hour inspections completed. Meteorological conditions at the time of the event were favorable, with visibility exceeding 10 km and a ceiling above 1,000 feet.
Findings
- The primary cause of the collision was a human error involving the pilot of HI-916, who performed an unsafe maneuver by attempting to land over an aircraft that was still occupying the runway.
- The pilot of HI-916 failed to maintain safe separation and lost altitude during the approach.
- The operator performed unauthorized repairs on the damaged aircraft following the event.
Safety action
- Operators are advised to strictly enforce regulations regarding operating near other aircraft to prevent collision risks.
- For fly-in events at uncontrolled airfields, the presence of operational surveillance is recommended to minimize violations of established flight maneuvers.
- Organizers of similar events should ensure the presence of emergency personnel, including firefighters and paramedics.