What happened
On September 27, 2018, a Cessna A188, registration HK1430, was performing an introductory reconnaissance flight at the San Isidro airstrip in El Castillo, Meta, Colombia. The pilot, who was undergoing induction into the company, intended to perform a water spraying procedure as part of a training mission.
During the takeoff roll, the pilot rotated the aircraft at a speed approximately 10 knots below the required rotation speed. While the aircraft initially achieved flight through ground effect, it failed to maintain sufficient climb performance once it left that effect. Fearing the aircraft would not clear trees located 70 feet high at the end of the runway, the pilot initiated a right turn. During this maneuver, the aircraft struck a tree on the side of the runway, causing a wing to detach, and subsequently hit a second tree. The impact caused a total loss of lift, resulting in the aircraft flipping and sliding 10 meters into an adjacent field. The pilot sustained minor injuries (fractured fingers), while the aircraft suffered substantial structural damage.
The investigation
The GRIAA investigation focused on the pilot's performance, the aircraft's maintenance status, and the airfield environment. Investigators found that the aircraft was airworthy and had undergone a 100-hour service shortly before the accident. The investigation also noted that the operator had previously requested the removal of trees near the runway head, but had received no response from the landowner.
Findings
- The primary cause was the loss of control and lift due to an inadequate takeoff technique, specifically a premature rotation at speeds lower than required by the operating manual.
- The pilot's lack of experience in this specific aircraft type and a lack of fundamental aerodynamic knowledge regarding takeoff procedures contributed to the error.
- The operator provided deficient supervision, failing to account for the pilot's recent hiring and the need for a more robust induction program.
- The presence of obstacles (trees) near the runway end limited the pilot's ability to maneuver safely during the failed climb.
Safety action
- The operator was advised to establish formal theoretical and practical induction programs for new pilots.
- Recommendations were made to implement training regarding aerodynamics, ground effect, and takeoff performance.
- The airstrip operator was advised to manage tree pruning to mitigate runway obstructions.