What happened
On August 14, 2020, a Cessna 170-A, registration LV-FEX, was performing a general aviation ferry flight from San Pedro to General Rodríguez, Buenos Aires. During the landing phase at General Rodríguez aerodrome, the pilot mistakenly landed on the strip adjacent to runway 35. As the aircraft continued its landing roll, it struck a series of ditches located alongside taxiway "G". The impact caused the right main landing gear spring to fail, subsequently leading to the propeller making contact with the ground. There were no fatalities or injuries to the pilot during the event.
The investigation
The investigation focused on the mechanical failure of the landing gear and the environmental factors at the aerodrome. Laboratory testing of the right main landing gear spring revealed that the component failed because it was subjected to loads exceeding its design limits. No evidence of pre-existing material fatigue or progressive failure was found; notably, a non-destructive inspection of the same component in 2017 had shown no anomalies.
Investigators also examined the pilot's recent flight history and the aircraft's equipment. The pilot had been inactive for over five months due to COVID-19 pandemic restrictions. Furthermore, the investigation reviewed the onboard fire extinguisher, which was a 1 kg dry powder type.
Findings
- The primary cause of the landing gear failure was the application of structural loads beyond the design capacity following the impact with ground ditches.
- The presence of ditches on the strip adjacent to the runway acted as a significant hazard; following the accident, these ditches were removed and the terrain was leveled.
- The pilot did not perform the required flight adaptation training, which is mandated by Argentine regulations (RAAC 61) after a period of inactivity exceeding 30 days.
- The onboard dry powder fire extinguisher was identified as a potential risk, as the discharge of such agents in a confined cockpit can severely obstruct visibility and contaminate the air.
Safety action
- The investigation highlighted the necessity for pilots to complete mandatory flight adaptation training after periods of inactivity to maintain essential skills.
- The findings underscore the importance of using fire extinguishers that do not compromise cabin air quality or visibility during an emergency.