What happened
On March 1, 2006, a Piper Seneca PA-300T, registration OB-1564, operated by SAETA, was performing a scheduled flight from Tarapoto to Tocache with one pilot and five passengers on board. After a 43-minute flight, the pilot initiated an approach at Tocache Aerodrome.
The aircraft touched down approximately 800 meters past the runway threshold. After traveling roughly 120 meters along the runway, the aircraft began to veer off the paved surface. The pilot was unable to maintain directional control, causing the aircraft to rotate and the left and right landing gear to collapse. The aircraft came to a stop 22 meters from the centerline of runway 10.
The investigation
The CIAA investigation examined the runway conditions and the aircraft's mechanical state. The investigation found that the aircraft's engines, propellers, and fuselage remained intact following the incident. The pilot had successfully shut down the engines to prevent fire after realizing directional control was lost.
Investigators noted that while the aircraft was within weight and balance limits for landing, the physical condition of the runway environment played a critical role. The investigation also reviewed the maintenance records of the aircraft and the operational procedures of the operator, SAETA.
Findings
- The primary cause was the pilot's complacency, which led to the decision to land without first performing a reconnaissance pass to verify the runway conditions.
- Excessive vegetation on the runway margins, caused by a lack of maintenance, contributed to the accident. Tall grass entered the brake assembly, causing the right wheel to lock.
- The loss of directional control and subsequent gear collapse occurred when the aircraft encountered a depression or hole while veering off the runway.