What happened
On October 15, 2017, a Cessna 650, registered as PP-NPC, was performing a takeoff roll at the Maringá Aerodrome (SBMG) in Paraná, Brazil. The aircraft was operating a passenger flight with two pilots and six passengers on board. As the aircraft approached its decision speed (V1), a loud bang was heard, followed by a sudden leftward yaw.
The crew managed to maintain directional control and initiated an aborted takeoff. However, the aircraft could not stop within the paved runway limits, eventually coming to a halt in the clearway, approximately 115 meters beyond the opposite runway threshold. The aircraft sustained light damage to the left landing gear and tires, but all eight occupants escaped without injury.
The investigation
CENIPA investigators examined the runway surface at the Maringá Aerodrome and identified significant deterioration. Approximately 800 meters from the runway 10 threshold, the asphalt presented cracks, uneven surfaces, and loose stones. The investigation also noted that pilots frequently operated on the edges of the runway to avoid these surface imperfections, which compromised operational safety.
Technical analysis focused on the impact of the pavement condition on the aircraft's landing gear. While the crew's actions were deemed effective in maintaining control, the investigation considered whether a delay in correcting the yaw contributed to the longitudinal overrun. Additionally, while the aircraft's airworthiness certificate was valid, investigators found that the aircraft's maintenance logbooks (cell and engine) were not up to date.
Findings
- The deteriorated pavement condition, characterized by holes, cracks, and uneven asphalt, likely caused excessive stress on the left landing gear wheels, leading to the tire burst.
- The aircraft's takeoff performance was within manufacturer limits, and the crew was properly qualified and experienced.
- The aircraft exceeded the runway longitudinal limit during the aborted takeoff, potentially due to the time required to stabilize the aircraft's heading after the burst.
Safety action
CENIPA issued recommendations to the National Civil Aviation Agency (ANAC) to ensure the immediate repair of the runway pavement at Maringá Aerodrome. Furthermore, ANAC was advised to work with the aerodrome operator to improve pavement monitoring and maintenance programs to ensure infrastructure remains in safe operational condition.