What happened
On June 15, 2022, at approximately 18:30 UTC, a Beechcraft A 36 TC, registration LV-HUQ, was attempting to depart from an unofficial airstrip at the "El Tránsito" estate near Concepción, Corrientes. The flight was intended as a general aviation transfer to the Corrientes airport.
Due to the primary runway being waterlogged, the pilot attempted to use an alternative 700-meter runway. After an initial aborted attempt, the pilot repositioned the aircraft to gain extra distance. During the second takeoff roll, the aircraft achieved lift and cleared a fence, but shortly after, it lost lift and struck the ground approximately 180 meters from the runway threshold. The aircraft slid 14 meters through a flooded field, causing significant damage to the airframe. All four occupants—the pilot and three passengers—escaped the wreckage without injury.
The investigation
The investigation examined the runway conditions, meteorological data, and the aircraft's performance. Investigators found that while the grass on the alternative runway was trimmed, the surface was soft and damp, causing the wheels to sink during the takeoff roll and increasing rolling resistance.
Meteorological reports indicated a light 5-knot wind from the northeast, which provided a tailwind component. The aircraft was operating at a weight near its maximum takeoff limit. Analysis of the propeller blades confirmed the engine was producing power at the moment of impact. Additionally, the investigation noted that the alternative runway used for the departure had not been officially reported to the National Civil Aviation Administration (ANAC).
Findings
- The runway surface was soft due to excessive moisture.
- The combination of a soft runway, tailwind, and high takeoff weight required a takeoff distance greater than the available runway length.
- The aircraft initially achieved flight due to ground effect; however, as it climbed out of this zone, the increase in induced drag caused a loss of lift that the pilot could not counteract with additional power.
- The operation was conducted from an unregistered and unauthorized landing site.