What happened
On December 20, 2012, a Neiva P56-C, registration PP-GSV, was performing a flight instruction mission departing from Amarais Aerodrome (SDAM) in Campinas, Brazil. The flight was part of a training session focused on touch-and-go maneuvers to prepare a student for an instructor rating check.
While on final approach during the traffic pattern, the instructor experienced a sudden loss of elevator and aileron control. Due to the mechanical failure, the instructor performed a heavy landing. During the landing sequence, the propeller struck the ground. Following the impact, the aircraft was taxied to a hangar, where the crew noted the damage. Both occupants of the aircraft remained uninjured.
The investigation
CENIPA investigators examined the flight controls and identified that the base of the instructor's control column (front position) had fractured. The investigation established that the failure was caused by the presence of corrosion at the fracture site.
Regarding the crew's actions, the instructor recognized the loss of control and requested that the student take over the controls for the landing. However, the student did not assume control until after the aircraft had already made its initial touchdown on the runway.
Findings
- The primary cause of the loss of control was the structural failure of the control column base due to corrosion.
- The aircraft sustained substantial damage to the propeller blades and the engine due to the sudden deceleration and ground impact.
- The crew members held valid medical and technical certifications and were qualified for the type of operation.
- The aircraft was within weight and balance limits and possessed a valid airworthiness certificate.
- The incident was categorized as a serious incident involving loss of control in flight.