What happened
On August 21, 2001, a Piper PA-25-260 was conducting agricultural spraying operations from an improvised airstrip located in a stubble field in the T.M. of Cordovilla, Salamanca. While returning from a flight, the aircraft touched down on the unpaved surface. Approximately two seconds after touchdown, the pilot experienced intense vibrations on the left side of the aircraft, initially suspecting a landing gear failure or a tire burst.
In an attempt to maintain a straight ground track, the pilot applied right rudder. During the landing roll, the aircraft bounced and suddenly veered 90 degrees to the right. This maneuver caused the aircraft to strike the ground with its nose, momentarily resting on the fuselage before stabilizing. The pilot was able to exit the aircraft unharmed.
The investigation
The investigation focused on the sequence of events during the landing roll and the condition of the improvised runway. The examination of the aircraft revealed significant damage, including the breakage of both main landing gear legs, damage to the wings, and destruction of the spraying equipment. Additionally, the propeller, engine, and cowlings sustained damage. The investigation also reviewed the pilot's actions and the environmental conditions of the landing site.
Findings
- The aircraft's left main landing gear entered a ditch running across the surface of the improvised runway.
- The incorrect assessment, identification, and marking of obstacles on the temporary airstrip led to the landing gear striking the ditch during the landing roll.
- The impact caused the aircraft to deviate sharply from its path and strike the nose against the ground.