What happened
On August 31, 2013, at 14:40 UTC, an Aero Boero AB-180, registration PP-GFN, was performing a solo instructional flight for an agricultural pilot course at the Carazinho Aerodrome (SSKZ) in Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil.
Following the landing, the aircraft began to veer to the left. In an attempt to maintain directional control, the pilot applied right rudder pedal. During this maneuver, the pilot inadvertently applied the right brake with significant force. This action caused the aircraft's nose to pitch downward, resulting in the propeller striking the runway. The impact caused substantial damage to the propeller, engine, and fuselage. The pilot was uninjured.
The investigation
CENIPA's investigation established that the pilot was qualified for the flight, holding a valid medical certificate and technical rating, with 383 total flight hours and 30 hours in this specific model. The aircraft was also in compliance with airworthiness requirements and was within weight and balance limits.
The investigation also noted procedural irregularities regarding the post-accident response. There was a 48-hour delay in reporting the occurrence to SERIPA V, and the aircraft was removed from the scene without prior authorization from the investigating authority.