What happened
On May 1, 2014, a Socata ST-10, registration PT-JJR, was performing a private transport flight from Sorocaba to Itanhaém, Brazil. During the approach to Itanhaém Aerodrome (SDIM), the pilot encountered deteriorating weather conditions characterized by strong winds and significant gusts. After performing two unsuccessful landing attempts involving go-around procedures, the pilot attempted a third approach toward threshold 33.
The aircraft touched down after the first third of the runway. Due to the difficulty in decelerating, the aircraft failed to stop before the end of the runway, overshooting threshold 1 and traveling approximately 20 meters into the underbrush and a wetland area. The aircraft sustained minor damage, but the pilot and the passenger were uninjured.
The investigation
CENIPA's investigation focused on the meteorological conditions and the pilot's decision-making process. Investigators noted that while visibility was favorable, the wind intensity was approximately 23 knots with gusts reaching up to 42 knots, exceeding the aircraft's 20-knot crosswind limitation. The investigation also examined the aerodrome's infrastructure, noting the presence of trees near the thresholds and a nearby power grid.
Technical analysis of the aircraft revealed that the engine, propeller, and braking systems were functioning correctly, and the aircraft was within its weight and balance limits. The investigation also reviewed the pilot's flight planning and the availability of fuel, which was sufficient to divert to an alternate aerodrome.