Cessna U206F encounters wind shear during takeoff in Amazonas

Casualties unknown • PISTA SHAMAUKA, EDO. AMAZONAS., VE

A private Cessna U206F experienced a sudden loss of lift due to a severe tailwind gust, leading to an impact with vegetation shortly after departing Puerto Ayacucho.

What happened

On the date of the occurrence, a Cessna U206F was performing a private flight from Cacique Aramare Airport in Puerto Ayacucho, Amazonas, destined for Shamauka, Amazonas. The aircraft was carrying two occupants.

Following takeoff, the pilot applied full power and verified that engine parameters were within normal limits. After reaching a speed of 55 knots, the pilot rotated the aircraft. Approximately 20 seconds into the flight at a low altitude, the aircraft encountered a strong tailwind gust. This caused the plane to sink heavily, with airspeed dropping from 55 knots to 45 knots.

As the aircraft descended, it began striking jungle vegetation, which further reduced its speed. In an effort to secure the aircraft, the pilot cut the fuel mixture, moved the fuel selector to the "OFF" position, and turned off the magnetos before the aircraft impacted the ground. After contact with the terrain, the aircraft slid approximately 100 meters, striking small trees with its wingtips before eventually capsizing at the end of the runway. The two occupants were uninjured, though the aircraft sustained substantial damage.

The investigation

The JIAAC investigation included a review of the aircraft's maintenance records, including airworthiness directives, scheduled maintenance compliance, and component tracking. The investigators also verified the aircraft's registration and airworthiness certificates, which were issued by the INAC.

Documentation regarding the pilot was reviewed, confirming a valid commercial pilot license and medical certificate issued by the INAC. The pilot held significant experience, with 6,849.2 total flight hours, including 2,563.5 hours in the involved aircraft type. Additionally, investigators conducted photographic documentation of the wreckage at the scene and interviewed the pilot.

Probable cause

The primary causal factor was a loss of lift resulting from wind shear (thermal/dynamic gradient). The aircraft encountered a severe tailwind gust during the critical initial climb phase, which degraded aerodynamic performance and caused an insufficient altitude and airspeed to avoid contact with vegetation.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 2021-10-27 CESSNA AIRCRAFT COMPANY U206F accident near PISTA SHAMAUKA, EDO. AMAZONAS., VE?

A private Cessna U206F experienced a sudden loss of lift due to a severe tailwind gust, leading to an impact with vegetation shortly after departing Puerto Ayacucho.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 2021-10-27 involved a CESSNA AIRCRAFT COMPANY U206F, registration YV1089, operated by PRIVADO, at PISTA SHAMAUKA, EDO. AMAZONAS., VE.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The primary causal factor was a loss of lift resulting from wind shear (thermal/dynamic gradient). The aircraft encountered a severe tailwind gust during the critical initial climb phase, which degraded aerodynamic performance and caused an insufficient altitude and airspeed to avoid contact with vegetation.

Investigation report by the Venezuelan Civil Aviation Accident Investigation Board (JIAAC Venezuela). Original record: https://www.mppt.gob.ve/download/190066/. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the Junta de Investigacion de Accidentes de Aviacion Civil (JIAAC), Venezuela - MppT.

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