What happened
On January 7, 2009, an Aeromot AMT-200SO, registration PR-BPM, operated by the Bahia State Military Police (GRAER), was conducting a coastal patrol mission. After previously identifying a new aerodrome at Costa dos Coqueiros (SNME) during a flight two days prior, the crew decided to land at the site to evaluate the runway conditions and contact the local administrator.
Following a successful landing performed by the commander, the crew prepared for departure. The commander permitted the co-pilot to handle the taxi and takeoff procedures to provide flight experience. During the takeoff roll, as the aircraft reached 40 knots, it began to lift the tail and showed a tendency to rotate prematurely before the required 54 knots due to ground effect. In an attempt to keep the aircraft on the runway, the co-le pilot applied excessive forward elevator input. This maneuver caused the propeller blades to strike the ground, resulting in light damage to the propeller tips. The commander immediately took control and aborted the takeoff to perform a structural inspection.
The investigation
CENIPA's investigation focused on the flight dynamics during the takeoff roll and the proficiency of the crew. The investigation established that the aircraft was airworthy, within weight and balance limits, and that the pilots held valid medical certificates and licenses. The investigation noted that while the co-pilot was qualified, his recent flight frequency was very low, having flown only 43 hours in the previous year due to administrative responsibilities within the unit.
Findings
- The co-pilot applied inappropriate control inputs to counteract the aircraft's tendency to float.
- The co-pilot's recent flight experience was limited due to low flight frequency.
- Inadequate managerial supervision regarding the monitoring of crew flight proficiency.