What happened
On April 17, 2019, a Cessna 210N, registration HK2719, was performing a non-scheduled air taxi flight from Tomachipán to San José del Guaviare. The aircraft was carrying one pilot and three passengers.
During the takeoff roll, the aircraft reached a speed of 45 knots when it encountered standing water on the runway. The accumulation of water caused the aircraft to decelerate and simultaneously splashed the cockpit windscreen with water and mud, obscuring the pilot's vision. In an attempt to abort the takeoff, the pilot reduced power, cut the fuel, and applied the brakes. However, the aircraft entered a state of hydroplaning and began to slide. The aircraft eventually left the runway, struck a wire fence, and the left wing impacted a tree. All four occupants were able to evacuate the aircraft without injury, though the aircraft sustained significant structural damage.
The investigation
The GRIAA investigation focused on the runway conditions at Tomachipán and the pilot's decision-making process. Investigators found that the runway lacked proper markings, delimitation, and a maintenance program. Recent light rain had created puddles on the surface.
Regarding the aircraft's operation, the investigation noted that while the aircraft was within weight and balance limits, the pilot had not calculated the required takeoff distance for a contaminated runway. Furthermore, the investigation found that the operator had dispatched the aircraft with 120 lbs of unnecessary excess fuel, which added additional weight to the operation. The investigation also identified that the sudden application of brakes led to hydroplaning caused by rubber reversion.
Findings
- The primary cause of the accident was the poor condition of the runway surface and inadequate maintenance, which led to the formation of puddles that caused hydroplaning and obscured the pilot's visibility.
- The poor state of the aerodrome's safety zones, characterized by uneven terrain and obstacles, contributed to the structural damage of the aircraft.
- The pilot failed to calculate the required takeoff distance for the contaminated runway conditions.
- The operator failed to manage operational risks by dispatching the aircraft with excessive fuel weight.