What happened
On October 23, 2014, at approximately 16:00 UTC, a Cessna 152, registration PR-RQL, was performing a flight training mission at the Arthur Sique and Aerodrome (SBBP) in Bragança Paulista, Brazil. The aircraft, operated by Yros Fly Escola de Aviação Civil Ltda.-ME, was carrying a flight instructor and a student pilot.
During the initial stages of the takeoff roll, the instructor noticed the aircraft veering to the left and instructed the student to correct the heading to return to the runway centerline. Although the correction was initially successful, the aircraft subsequently veered left again. Realizing that a runway excursion was imminent, the instructor took control of the aircraft; however, the deviation could not be corrected. The aircraft traveled approximately 220 meters before exiting the left side of the runway and coming to a stop in a grassy area near the runway edge.
The investigation
CENIPA investigators examined the mechanical condition of the aircraft and the flight crew's performance. A post-incident inspection of the aircraft's braking system was conducted, which revealed no abnormalities, such as leaks, premature wear, or ruptured hoses. The investigation confirmed that the aircraft's airworthiness certificate was valid, the weight and balance were within limits, and all maintenance logs were up to date. The crew members held valid medical certificates, and the instructor held the necessary flight instructor ratings. Meteorological conditions at the time of the event were favorable for flight.
Findings
- Low pilot experience may have contributed to the occurrence.
- The specific effectiveness of the control inputs applied during the excursion remains undetermined.
- The instructor's delay in taking control may have prevented the reversal of the situation before it became irreversible.