What happened
On August 17, 2015, a Neiva 56-C, registration PP-GTG, was conducting a local flight training session consisting of touch-and-go maneuvers at the Itápolis Aeroclube in São Paulo, Brazil. The flight involved an instructor in the rear seat and a student pilot in the front seat, who was a qualified Commercial Pilot seeking additional experience in conventional gear aircraft.
During the third landing of the session, the aircraft initially touched down on its main gear. As the pilot waited for the airspeed to decrease to lower the tail, the aircraft drifted slightly to the right of the runway centerline. In an attempt to maintain control, the instructor intervened using the control column to bring the tail gear down, while both pilots applied simultaneous inputs. During this sequence, the pilot applied the brakes while the tail was still elevated. Because the aircraft was traveling at a speed slightly below 40 mph, this braking action induced a nose-down pitch, causing the propeller and engine cowling to strike the runway surface.
The investigation
The investigation examined the flight conditions, aircraft maintenance, and pilot actions. The weather was reported as visual with calm winds, though investigators noted that the windsock position suggested a possible crosswind component that could have required more precise rudder control. The aircraft's maintenance records, including airworthiness and engine/propeller logs, were all found to be up to date. Both pilots held valid medical and technical certificates.
Investigators analyzed the mechanics of conventional gear aircraft, noting that these types are more susceptible to directional control challenges during takeoff and landing rolls compared to tricycle gear aircraft. Specifically, the application of brakes before the tail is firmly on the ground can trigger a nose-down movement.
Findings
- Pilot judgment regarding the use of brakes and directional control.
- A period of low situational awareness due to the successful completion of previous stabilized approaches and go-arounds.
- The physical tendency of conventional gear aircraft to pitch forward when braking while the tail is still elevated.
- The potential influence of a lateral wind component requiring increased rudder attention.