What happened
On October 16, 2021, a Cessna 188 aircraft, registration HK-1399, was conducting agricultural spraying operations near Gamarra, Colombia. After completing four successful spraying missions, the pilot attempted to depart from Germania Aerodrome to ferry the aircraft to the company's main base in Aguachica.
During the takeoff roll, approximately 200 meters into the run, the aircraft experienced a sudden loss of directional control. The aircraft veered sharply to the right, exiting the runway and entering the safety area. The aircraft's left wing struck a tree and subsequently hit a concrete post before coming to a stop. The pilot was able to exit the aircraft uninjured, though the aircraft sustained substantial damage, including structural fractures to the left wing and the detachment of the left main landing gear.
The investigation
The GRIAA investigation focused on the runway conditions and the operational decision-making of the operator. Investigators examined the surface of Germania Aerodrome, finding it to be in a precarious state, characterized by an irregular mixture of compacted gravel and grass. The investigation also reviewed the maintenance records of the aircraft, which were found to be up to date, and the pilot's credentials, which were in full compliance with Colombian regulations.
Findings
- The primary cause of the lateral runway excursion was the loss of directional control during takeoff due to runway contamination, specifically caused by standing water, mud, and an irregular surface that significantly increased friction between the tires and the runway.
- The runway surface was highly irregular and featured uneven terrain caused by accumulated moisture.
- The safety area was poorly maintained, featuring uneven ground, water accumulation, and hidden obstacles such as tall vegetation and fence posts.
- There was a lack of adequate risk assessment by both the pilot and the operator regarding the use of the substandard runway.
- The operator failed to implement sufficient safety planning to mitigate the high risks associated with operating from such a degraded airfield.