Synopsis
On 12 May 2024, at approximately 11:44 local time (16:44 UTC), a Cessna 182P, registration HK-1937, sustained substantial damage during a runway excursion at Kamanaos Aerodrome (ICAO: SQKM) in Vaupés, Colombia. The aircraft was operated as a non-scheduled air taxi flight. Both occupants—the pilot and one passenger—were uninjured.
Flight History
The flight was part of a multi-leg itinerary from Fabio León Bentley Airport (SKMU) in Mitú. After two uneventful earlier legs, the pilot refueled the aircraft to 50 gallons, loaded 300 lb of baggage, and departed Mitú at 11:24 local time for Kamanaos. The approach was conducted under visual flight rules (VFR) with a left-hand traffic pattern for Runway 27, using tree tops as a wind reference (the aerodrome lacked a windsock). On final, the pilot configured full flaps and maintained 60 knots approach speed, noting a 3- to 5-knot wind variation on the airspeed indicator. During landing at approximately 11:43 local time, after touching down, the aircraft encountered a gust from the northeast, causing it to veer left and depart the runway. The pilot shut down the engine as the aircraft exited the runway. The left main landing gear struck an earthen mound, stopping the aircraft. Both occupants evacuated safely.
Aircraft Damage
Post-accident inspection revealed substantial damage, including a bent propeller blade and dents on the lower left engine cowling. The engine, nose gear, and main landing gear components showed no apparent damage or leaks. The aircraft came to rest beside Runway 27/09, oriented at approximately 300°.
Aerodrome Information
Kamanaos Aerodrome (SQKM) is a public-use airstrip with Runway 09/27, 400 m long and 15 m wide, elevation 670 ft ASL. The runway lacked runway end safety areas (RESA) and adequate safety strips. Maintenance was performed by local residents, who used ditches to mark edges. The surface was muddy during rainy periods. No windsock, markings, or weather station were present. The aerodrome was administered by the Vaupés government.
Meteorological Conditions
Although no on-site weather station existed, a GDAS model for the touchdown point indicated a 70% probability of winds from 45° at 1 to 4 knots. An atmospheric sounding at 18:00 UTC showed an unstable atmosphere with convective activity, light drizzle, surface temperature 28°C, dew point 26°C, and 91% relative humidity. Satellite imagery (GOES 16, channel 12) and surface analysis indicated a low-pressure area with eastward waves, precipitation, and thunderstorms.
Operational Aspects
The pilot held a valid Commercial Pilot License (PCA) and medical certificate, with a limitation for prescription lenses. He had 987:09 hours on the Cessna 182P out of 2,086:56 total hours. Recurrent training and proficiency checks were current. Weight and balance calculations showed the aircraft operated within limits (takeoff weight 2,827 lb vs. max 2,950 lb). The operating company held a valid Air Operator Certificate, with its main base at Vanguardia Airport (SKVV) in Villavicencio and a sub-base at Mitú. Flight planning for operations from non-main bases was the pilot's responsibility per company dispatch manual.