What happened
On October 26, 2014, a Piper PA-3 and-220T, registration PT-SUN, was conducting a private passenger flight from Caratinga, MG, to Pampulha, MG. Due to deteriorating meteorological conditions, the pilot diverted the flight to Carlos Prates Aerodrome (SBPR), which was operating under special VFR conditions at the time.
During the landing roll, the aircraft exited the runway limits and spun, coming to a stop in the opposite direction of its landing heading. Following the excursion, the pilot taxied the aircraft to the apron without requesting assistance. All 6 occupants (one crew member and five passengers) were uninjured, and the aircraft sustained no damage.
The investigation
The investigation was initiated after an airport employee notified the authorities. Investigators encountered difficulties in identifying the pilot, as the initial individual contacted ceased communication. Ultimately, a second pilot identified himself as the person in command during the event.
Crucially, the pilot had inspected the aircraft with a mechanic and proceeded to continue the flight to Pampulha for a 50-hour inspection before the investigation team could examine the aircraft. This prevented a detailed mechanical analysis of the landing gear or tires. However, investigators were able to review airport CCTV footage, which revealed significant accumulations of water on specific sections of the runway. Additionally, investigators observed overheating marks on the tires, which supported the possibility of hydroplaning.
Findings
- Large concentrations of water on the runway surface likely caused a loss of traction.
- Hydroplaning is considered a highly probable factor in the loss of directional control.
- The aircraft's departure from the runway was the primary event leading to the incident.