Incident
On 2 November 2021, at 14:30 Cape Verde Time, a DA42NG-VI aircraft, registration OE-FUB, departed from runway 19 at Amílcar Cabral International Airport (GVAC) en route to Aristides Pereira Airport on Boa Vista Island. Shortly after departure, at 14:43, the pilot contacted Sal Control and reported that the rear passenger door was not properly closed, requesting to return to the airport. The pilot did not declare an emergency. After landing at 14:45, it was discovered that the rear passenger door had separated from the aircraft in flight. No other damage to the aircraft was found during a 360-degree inspection.
Aircraft Information
The aircraft was a Diamond DA42NG-VI, serial number 42.N180, operated by Aerocália Lda. It is a twin-engine, non-pressurized, low-wing aircraft with a capacity for up to four occupants, including the pilot. The rear passenger door, located on the left side of the fuselage, is held in the open position by a gas spring and secured by two hinges. An unlocked-door warning is displayed on the ICS when the door is not secured. According to maintenance records, the aircraft had no significant anomalies prior to the incident.
Flight History
The flight carried one pilot and one passenger. The pilot, a 57-year-old male holding a valid Private Pilot License and medical certificate, departed GVAC at 14:30. At 14:43, the pilot reported to ATC that the rear passenger door was not correctly closed and requested to return. ATC authorized a landing on runway 19, and the pilot landed at 14:45. The aircraft was subsequently immobilized and placed in a hangar at Sal Airport.
Investigation
The Institute for Prevention and Investigation of Aeronautical and Maritime Accidents (IPIAAM) was notified and deployed an investigation team to the site on 3 November 2021. The investigation aims to identify the causes and contributing factors of the incident, in accordance with ICAO Annex 13. No analysis or conclusions have been included in this preliminary report.
Findings
The pilot possessed valid licenses. The aircraft had no relevant maintenance issues. The rear passenger door was missing after landing. No other damage or injuries were reported.