What happened
On December 29, 2010, a Cessna T188C was performing its sixth agricultural flight of the day from the KM 192 private airstrip. The aircraft was configured for crop dusting, carrying 40 gallons of fuel and 160 gallons of fungicide.
During the takeoff roll from runway 19, the aircraft traveled approximately 313 meters before deviating to the right. The aircraft exited the paved surface, entered a drainage ditch, and climbed a 1.15-meter high embankment with a 30-degree slope. After traveling an additional 28 meters, the aircraft struck three concrete perimeter posts. The impact caused significant damage, including a broken left wing, a bent right wingtip, damaged propeller blades, and the detachment of the main landing gear components. The pilot was able to abandon the aircraft safely without injuries.
The investigation
The investigation focused on determining whether environmental factors or pilot error contributed to the excursion. While the pilot reported that strong crosswinds had pushed the aircraft off the centerline, investigators conducted meteorological analysis using a portable weather meter. The findings indicated that winds at the time of the accident were relatively light, around 5 knots from 190 degrees, and noted that nearby palm plantations likely acted as a windbreak, making a significant crosswind unlikely.
Investigators also examined physical evidence on the runway. Tire marks indicated that the pilot had applied the right brake. Although the pilot initially claimed to have used the left brake to counter a rightward drift, the track of the right main tire suggested an attempt to correct the direction using the right side of the aircraft.
Furthermore, the board reviewed the operator's organizational structure and manuals. It was noted that the pilot also served as the company's Operations Manager, a dual role that resulted in neglected administrative oversight. The investigation also identified deficiencies in the company's Operations Manual, specifically regarding missing checklist procedures and the lack of calculated takeoff weight limits for various runway conditions.
Findings
- The primary cause was a pilot overcorrection while attempting to maintain directional control during the takeoff roll.
- The application of the right brake at high speed likely induced a loss of directional stability.
- The operator's organizational structure lacked a dedicated Operations Manager, leading to inadequate operational control.
- The company's operations manual lacked essential flight procedures and standardized takeoff weight calculations.