What happened
On January 9, 2014, an IAI-1124A (WW1124), registration PR-STJ, was performing a landing on runway 36 at Recife Airport (SBRF) under adverse weather conditions. The flight, operated by Infinity Participações Ltda., had originated from Aracaju. During the landing roll, the aircraft lost directional control on the ground, veering off the left side of the runway and traveling approximately 4/00 meters through a grassy area parallel to the pavement.
The aircraft sustained light damage, including impacts to the landing lights, anti-collision lights, and an antenna, as well as damage to the nose gear wheel hub and runway lighting fixtures. All five occupants—two pilots and three passengers—were uninjured.
The investigation
CENIPA's investigation focused on the aircraft's high approach speed and the environmental conditions at the time of the incident. Investigators analyzed meteorological reports, which indicated heavy rain and reduced visibility, as well as wind shear caused by convective activity from nearby Cumulonimbus clouds.
The investigation also examined the crew's experience, noting that while the pilots were highly experienced in general aviation, this was their first time operating a jet aircraft. Furthermore, the investigation revealed that the cockpit voice recorder (CVR) had failed to record communications during the flight, despite the crew's assertion that they had performed the required pre-flight tests. The investigation also highlighted a lack of flight safety culture within the operating organization, noting that the company used the aircraft for transport without the necessary risk management frameworks required for jet operations.
Findings
- The aircraft landed at a speed exceeding the recommended limits for its weight.
- The runway surface was wet, leading to a combination of dynamic and viscous hydroplaning.
- The crew failed to execute a missed approach (go-around) despite the cloud ceiling being below the established minimum descent altitude (MDA).
- Adverse weather, including heavy rain and wind shear, significantly compromised the landing.
- The crew demonstrated poor situational awareness and flawed decision-making regarding the risks of landing in low visibility.
- The organization lacked a robust safety culture, allowing for the operation of jet aircraft by crew members with low technical proficiency in that specific aircraft type.