What happened
On August 26, 2021, a Cessna C550, registration PR-LJJ, was performing a ferry flight from Congonhas (SBSP) to the Clube de Aviação Céu Azul (SWON) aerodrome in Araquari, Brazil. The aircraft, operated privately, was carrying two qualified pilots.
Upon landing on runway 34, the aircraft failed to stop within the paved limits of the runway, resulting in a runway overrun. The aircraft exited the runway at the opposite end and entered a grassy area. There were no injuries to the crew and no damage to the aircraft.
The investigation
CENIPA investigators examined the aircraft's performance and the aerodrome conditions. The aircraft was within its weight and balance limits, with a landing weight of approximately 12,080 lbs. Maintenance records showed the aircraft was fully compliant with airworthiness requirements, and the braking and anti-skid systems were found to be functioning correctly after inspection.
While the crew reported that the runway was wet but without standing water, investigators identified a significant amount of contamination (slime) covering the pavement. Although the aircraft was equipped with a Cockpit Voice Recorder (CVR), the device failed to record any intelligible audio, providing only noise. Consequently, investigators could not verify if the crew followed all standard operating procedures or if the landing was stabilized.
Findings
- The presence of heavy contamination (slime) on the runway surface likely reduced the friction coefficient, potentially hindering the aircraft's braking capability.
- The possibility that the crew did not correctly apply the parameters required for a stabilized approach and landing.
- The runway dimensions were sufficient for the operation, but the surface condition was a critical factor.