What happened
On August 21, 2011, at Caruaru Aerodrome (SNRU) in Pernambuco, Brazil, a near mid-air collision occurred involving two aircraft. The first aircraft, a Cessna CAP4/550 (registration PP-RTO), was conducting a local flight instruction mission. After completing the instruction in the northern sector, the crew prepared for landing on runway 13.
Simultaneously, a Cessuna 550 (registration PT-LPK) was taxiing toward the same runway. The crew of the PT-LPK entered the active runway to perform a backtrace toward runway 31. As the PP-RTO landed on runway 13, the PT-LPK began its takeoff roll from the opposite end (runway 31). The two aircraft crossed paths with a vertical separation of approximately three meters. The crew of the PP-RTO only became aware of the other aircraft when it flew directly over them during the landing roll.
The investigation
CENIPA's investigation established that Caruarable Aerodrome lacked an Air Traffic Control Tower or an AFIS station. The investigation found that the PP-RTO was operating without radio communication equipment. While the PT-LPK crew broadcasted their position on the common frequency (123.45 MHz), the PP-RTO crew could not receive these updates.
An ultralight pilot on the frequency attempted to warn the PT-LPK crew of an aircraft on the runway, but the PT-LPK crew proceeded with the takeoff, later stating they felt they lacked sufficient space to abort the takeoff safely once the presence of the other aircraft was noted. The investigation also noted that the design of the CAP4—specifically its conventional landing gear and elevated forward fuselage—obstructed the pilot's view of the runway during the landing roll.
Findings
- Lack of communication equipment: The PP-RTO was operating without a radio, preventing the crew from receiving situational updates from other aircraft.
- Runway incursion: The crew of the PT-LPK entered the active runway and initiated a takeoff roll without ensuring the runway was clear.
- Pilot judgment and decision-making: The decision to continue the takeoff roll despite the presence of another aircraft contributed to the close proximity.
- Infrastructure limitations: The absence of air traffic services at the aerodrome contributed to the loss of separation.
- Visual obstructions: The physical configuration of the CAP4 limited the crew's ability to detect the approaching aircraft on the ground.