Summary
On 28 July 2021 at approximately 20:18 UTC (16:20 GST), a Roraima Airways Inc. (RAI) Britten-Norman BN-2A-27 Islander, registration 8R-GRB, was preparing for takeoff from Aricheng Aerodrome (SYAR) in Region 7, Guyana. The intended destination was Kamarang Aerodrome (SYKM). The aircraft carried one pilot (commander) and one passenger (an RAI operations staff member), along with cargo consisting of five full 55-gallon plastic barrels (containing gasoline and diesel), two empty 55-gallon plastic barrels, an empty BN Islander double seat, and a piece of metal (angle iron).
Flight Details
The pilot reported that earlier that day, he had completed seven takeoffs and eight landings on the same runway without issues. The runway surface, constructed mainly from laterite soil with a concrete section, was described by the pilot as satisfactory (firm) for operations, despite very light showers during the morning. On the accident flight, the aircraft began its takeoff roll on Runway 04. The commander stated that at approximately 1,400 feet down the 1,968-foot runway, the aircraft reached 60 knots (later revised to 55 knots in a subsequent interview) but failed to rotate when he manipulated the controls.
Accident Sequence
The aircraft did not lift off and continued off the end of the runway. It came to rest approximately 60 feet beyond the runway end, in a gully-like depression. The aircraft sustained major structural damage, including:
- Port wing tip contacting the ground with structural damage
- Wrinkles on both wings
- Damage to nose keel members
- Nose and port main landing gears bent rearwards
- Damage to the port engine torsion box and surrounding structure
- A puncture on the starboard main wheel outer tyre, approximately half an inch wide, located on the outer sidewall
- A bent port propeller tip.
Weight and Configuration
An investigation revealed that the actual weight of the aircraft at takeoff was 6,760.20 lbs, which exceeded the maximum takeoff weight (MTOW) of 6,600 lbs by 160.20 lbs. Additionally, the weight declared on the load sheet was 6,337 lbs, resulting in a discrepancy of 423.20 lbs. The flap setting was observed at the takeoff position, consistent with the pilot's account.
Injuries and Damage
There were no injuries to the crew or passenger. No other damage was reported beyond the aircraft itself.
Investigation Findings
The initial investigation identified several contributory and consequential factors: the aircraft payload exceeded the allowable MTOW; the take-off configuration did not achieve its intended purpose, preventing lift-off; and the commander did not abort the take-off in time. Five safety recommendations were subsequently made.