Introduction
On 17 April 2025, at 17:20 UTC, a Beechcraft King Air 360ER, registration D4-CCL, operated by the Cape Verde State, was involved in a serious incident during a landing at GVNP (Nelson Mandela International Airport, Praia). The aircraft sustained damage to the right engine propeller blades. No injuries were reported among the two crew members, six passengers, or others.
Flight History
The flight was a training, familiarization, and medical evacuation mission. During final approach to runway 03, the crew maintained the planned RNP approach. Preliminary analysis indicated that the approach was flown at a speed above the operational reference speed (Vref). The pilot monitoring alerted the pilot flying about the excess speed. In an attempt to correct, the crew reduced engine power to idle, resulting in a first touchdown with high vertical speed. The aircraft then experienced a slight bounce, followed by a second contact with the nose landing gear, causing the right propeller to strike the ground. The crew executed a go-around and the second landing was completed safely. No emergency was declared at any point.
After landing, the crew taxied to the parking ramp and performed normal shutdown procedures. Visible damage to the right propeller blades, including dents at the tips consistent with ground impact, was discovered. The investigation authority was not immediately notified; communication occurred later after an assessment by manufacturer representatives.
Aircraft and Crew
The aircraft, a Beechcraft King Air 360ER (serial FL-1323), is a twin-engine turboprop manufactured by Textron Aviation. It was recently acquired by the Cape Verde Government for state missions including patrol and medical evacuation. The crew consisted of a 57-year-old male pilot flying (holding an ATPL(A) and valid medical certificate), a 43-year-old male pilot monitoring (holding a CPL(A) and valid medical certificate), and a 63-year-old male instructor serving as observer (holding an ATPL(A) and valid medical certificate). The aircraft had a valid airworthiness certificate and was maintained per schedule, with no MEL-deferred items.
Aftermath
The Instituto de Prevenção e Investigação de Acidentes Aeronáuticos e Marítimos (IPIAAM) was notified on 21 April 2025 and dispatched a team to collect evidence. The investigation is ongoing, focusing on human, operational, material, and organizational factors. The preliminary report notes that the approach was above Vref and that the corrective action led to the propeller strike. No further analysis or findings are included at this stage.
Investigation
The IPIAAM is conducting the investigation in accordance with ICAO Annex 13 and national regulations. The investigation is preventive in nature and does not assign blame. A final report will be issued upon completion, containing technical conclusions and safety recommendations as necessary.