What happened
On September 21, 2023, at approximately 19:30 UTC, an American Champion Aircraft 7-EC, registration LV-ZMN, was conducting a general aviation pleasure flight near Valdés, Buenos Aires. While flying over Provincial Route 40, the pilot decided to simulate an emergency procedure by performing a touch-and-go landing on the asphalt roadway.
During the maneuver, the pilot successfully made initial contact with the main landing gear. However, as the tailwheel touched the pavement, the aircraft became unstable. Despite the pilot applying power to initiate a takeoff, the aircraft veered to the right, crossing the shoulder and striking heavy vegetation. This caused the aircraft to rotate left, leading the propeller to strike the ground and the right wingtip to impact a terrain depression. The aircraft sustained significant damage to the fuselage, wings, rudder, and landing gear, but the pilot and passenger escaped without injuries.
The investigation
The JST investigation examined the aircraft's condition, the pilot's credentials, and the operational environment. Technical inspections of LV-ZMN revealed no mechanical failures or maintenance deficiencies; the aircraft's documentation and airworthiness certificates were current. The pilot was found to be properly licensed and rated for the aircraft type.
Investigators analyzed the landing site, noting that the highway lacked the necessary safety margins, such as prepared surfaces or adequate signaling, found at certified aerodromes. The investigation also reviewed the Argentine Civil Aviation Regulations (RAAC), specifically Section 91.128, which governs operations outside of established aerodromes.
Findings
- The pilot intentionally simulated an emergency to perform a touch-and-go on a public highway.
- The aircraft experienced a loss of directional control upon tailwheel contact, leading to the excursion into the roadside vegetation.
- The selection of an uncertified and unprepared roadway for flight operations was the primary determining factor in the accident.
- The simulated emergency maneuver performed on the highway was not an authorized exception under RAAC Section 91.128.
Safety action
- Emergency landing practice is a vital component of pilot training but must be conducted in a controlled and safe environment, such as a certified aerodrome or prepared runway.