What happened
On March 29, 2009, at approximately 16:40 UTC, an Aero Boero AB-115, registration PP-GEO, was performing solo touch-and-go training maneuvers at Aeródromo Pinto Martins (SBFZ) in Fortaleza, Brazil. The aircraft, operated by Aeroclube do Ceará, had completed six landings on runway 13. Following the final landing of the sequence, the aircraft veered off the left side of the runway.
The pilot managed to regain directional control while on the grass surface and successfully returned the aircraft to the runway. The aircraft then taxied normally back to the apron. There were no injuries to the pilot, and the aircraft sustained no damage.
The investigation
CENIPA investigators confirmed that the pilot held valid medical and single-engine land (MNTE) certifications and was experienced in this aircraft type. The aircraft's airworthiness certificate was valid, and all maintenance records for the airframe, engine, and propeller were up to date. The aircraft was operating within established weight and balance limits.
The investigation focused on the inherent handling characteristics of the Aero Boero AB-115. The aircraft features a conventional landing gear with a narrow track and lacks shock absorbers, which makes directional control on the ground particularly challenging. Furthermore, the investigation noted that the tailwheel is not controlled by the pilot, further complicating ground steering. Other ergonomic factors, such as non-adjustable seats and heavy flight controls, were also noted as contributing to the difficulty of precise maneuvering.
Findings
- Crosswind conditions: Predominant crosswinds during the landing phase contributed to the loss of directional control.
- Aircraft design characteristics: The narrow track of the main landing gear and the lack of pilot control over the tailwheel made the aircraft susceptible to ground instability, especially during takeoff and landing rolls in non-aligned winds.