What happened
On June 3, 2025, a Petrel 912i (registration LV-FWJ) was performing a landing at an aerodrome in Argentina when the aircraft experienced an abnormal contact with the runway. During the landing phase on runway 01, the aircraft's nose gear made improper contact with the surface. The impact occurred at a low-to-intermediate speed with a nose-down pitch attitude. Despite the unusual contact, the aircraft remained on the airfield, and the two occupants on board sustained no injuries.
The investigation
The investigation focused on the circumstances surrounding the landing and the physical state of the airfield. Investigators examined the aircraft, which was being operated for flight training purposes by a flying school. The investigation also assessed the runway environment and identified specific obstacles near the landing area. The aircraft's maintenance records were found to be current, and the aircraft was operating under a permit to fly.
Findings
Technical analysis of the landing indicated that the aircraft struck the runway with an abnormal nose gear contact. Beyond the mechanical sequence of the landing, the investigation identified environmental factors at the airfield that required attention. Specifically, the presence of a metal Australian-style water tank located within the runway safety area was noted as a factor. Additionally, trees located near the runway head, adjacent to a highway collector road, were identified as part of the site conditions.
Safety action
To improve the safety of the landing area, the following corrective actions were implemented:
- The metal water tank was removed from the runway safety strip.
- Trees located near the threshold of runway 01, bordering the highway collector, were removed.