What happened
On March 23, 2021, a Vans RV-9A, registration LV-X641, was performing a general aviation flight from Aeroclub Rafaela to Libertador General D.J. San Martín Airport in Posadas, Misiones. During the landing phase, as the aircraft was in the landing roll following touchdown, the left landing gear tire suffered a puncture. This mechanical failure caused the aircraft to veer off the runway, eventually coming to a stop within the safety area.
The investigation
The investigation focused on the circumstances surrounding the landing and the subsequent condition of the aircraft. Investigators examined the sequence of events from the moment of touchdown through the loss of directional control. The inquiry evaluated the impact of the tire failure on the aircraft's trajectory and the resulting damage to the airframe.
Findings
- The primary cause of the runway excursion was a puncture of the left landing gear tire during the deceleration phase.
- The aircraft sustained minor damage as a result of the excursion.
- There were no fatalities or serious injuries among the two occupants (the pilot and one passenger), though one person sustained minor injuries.
Safety action
Following the analysis of the incident, the National Directorate determined that the event was classified as a simple incident. Because the lessons learned were not deemed to have a significant impact on the improvement of national operational safety, the authorities decided to close the investigation and archive the proceedings.