Propeller strike during landing roll at Londrina Aerodrome

Casualties unknown • LONDRINA, PR, BR

An Aero Boero AB-115 experienced a propeller strike after the crew applied simultaneous braking inputs during a landing roll in Paraná, Brazil.

What happened

On March 17, 2014, an Aero Boero AB-115, registration PP-GMR, was performing a visual flight rules (VFR) instructional flight. The flight originated from Londrina Aerodrome (SBLO), included a touch-and-go at Telêmacamente Borba (SSVL), and was returning to SBLO. The aircraft was occupied by an instructor and a student pilot.

During the final landing on runway 31 at Londrina, the aircraft began to drift toward the right side of the runway during the landing roll. In an attempt to correct the deviation, the student pilot applied the left brake. Simultaneously, the instructor also applied the left brake. This synchronized braking input caused the aircraft's tail to lift, resulting in the propeller striking the ground. The incident caused substantial damage to the engine, propeller, and tailwheel, though both occupants remained uninjured.

The investigation

CENIPA examined the meteorological conditions and cockpit procedures leading to the event. Investigators noted that the aircraft had received several wind updates from the Londrina Tower prior to landing, with varying directions and intensities. The most recent update indicated a wind of 020° at 6 knots, creating a right crosswind component.

The investigation also reviewed the flight experience of the crew. The instructor held 450 total flight hours, while the student pilot had 93 total hours. The investigation focused on the lack of effective cockpit coordination and the impact of wind variations on the student pilot's ability to maintain the centerline.

Probable cause

The accident was caused by a lack of effective cockpit coordination and improper control inputs, specifically the simultaneous application of left braking by both pilots, compounded by the student pilot's limited experience managing varying wind conditions.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 2014-03-17 aircraft accident near LONDRINA, PR, BR?

An Aero Boero AB-115 experienced a propeller strike after the crew applied simultaneous braking inputs during a landing roll in Paraná, Brazil.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 2014-03-17 involved a aircraft, registration PPGMR, at LONDRINA, PR, BR.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The accident was caused by a lack of effective cockpit coordination and improper control inputs, specifically the simultaneous application of left braking by both pilots, compounded by the student pilot's limited experience managing varying wind conditions.

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