What happened
On March 8, 2023, at 14:15 UTC, an Aero Boero 180-RVR, registration LV-MFM, was performing a local recreational flight at the Cafayate aerodrome in Salta, Argentina. During the landing phase, the aircraft experienced an unexpected movement where the right wing lifted abruptly. This caused the aircraft to veer left and strike the runway forcefully, leading to an excursion into the safety area.
Upon entering the safety strip, the pilot attempted to apply power to regain flight; however, high vegetation and weeds in the area created enough friction to prevent the aircraft from accelerating. After being unable to lift off, the pilot reduced power, causing the aircraft to drift back onto the runway in an uncontrolled manner. The aircraft eventually performed a partial spin to the right, struck the left wing, and came to a stop on its nose and main gear. The impact caused the engine to stop abruptly as the propeller struck the ground. The pilot exited the aircraft without injuries, but the aircraft sustained significant damage to the propeller, engine cowl, exhaust pipe, and left wheel.
The investigation
The investigation by the JST focused on the operational circumstances of the landing. Meteorological conditions at the time were optimal, with calm winds and high visibility. The investigation found no evidence of pre-existing technical failures; the damage to LV-MFAT was a direct result of the hard landing and excursion.
Investigators noted that the safety strip near runway heading 15 contained significant amounts of tall weeds and overgrown vegetation. Furthermore, a discrepancy was identified in the Aerodrome Manual (MADHEL) regarding the aerodrome's precise location, though this was corrected by authorities in 2024.
Findings
- The exact cause of the initial right wing lift prior to touchdown could not be definitively determined.
- The pilot's decision to apply power to escape the safety area may have been delayed, contributing to the inability to regain airspeed.
- The presence of tall vegetation and weeds in the safety strip acted as a primary contributing factor by preventing the aircraft from accelerating and increasing the severity of the accident.
- The uncontrolled re-entry onto the runway occurred after the pilot reduced power following the failed takeoff attempt from the safety strip.