What happened
On November 23, 2019, a Cessna 172S, registration EC-JPY, was participating in a flight rally competition organized by the Aeroclub Barcelona-Sabadell. During the precision landing phase of the competition, the aircraft experienced a hard impact with the main landing gear approximately 1.5 meters above the ground, causing the aircraft to bounce.
In an attempt to prevent a second impact, the pilot executed a "go-around" (motor y al aire) maneuver. However, because the aircraft was configured with full flaps, it failed to climb effectively. The aircraft subsequently veered to the left and landed on the grass adjacent to the runway. Both occupants, who held PPL licenses, were uninjured. The aircraft sustained damage to the wingtips and the lower rear section of the fuselage.
The investigation
The investigation examined the flight conditions, the pilot's technique, and the competition's operational procedures. At the time of the landing, the wind was reported at 280 degrees with a velocity of 15 knots and gusts up to 25 knots. While the crosswind component was approximately 7.5 knots, the investigation noted that the competition rules required judges to declare crosswind conditions when the component reached 8 knots.
Investigators reviewed video footage of the landing, which showed the aircraft impacting the runway with the nose aligned with the runway but with a lateral tilt to the right. The analysis also focused on the pilot's execution of the go-around maneuver, noting that the flight manual recommends reducing flaps to 20 degrees immediately after applying maximum power, whereas the pilot maintained full flaps.
Findings
- The primary cause of the incident was the incorrect execution of the landing maneuver in crosswind conditions, followed by an improper go-around procedure.
- The pilot lacked knowledge of the appropriate methods for landing in crosswind conditions.
- The crew felt pressure to complete the precision landing without incurring penalties.
- The aeroclub failed to communicate or broadcast the approaching strong crosswind conditions to the participants.
Safety action
Following the incident, the aeroclub conducted its own safety review and provided guidance to the pilot. The CIAIAC issued two safety recommendations to the Aeroclub Barcelona-Sabadell: one regarding the review of participant requirements for rally competitions, and another regarding the improvement of communication procedures during significant changes in flight conditions.