What happened
On July 24, 2024, at approximately 19:00 UTC, a Piper PA11C (registration LV-RXM) was involved in a ground incident at Brag/Bragado Aerodrome in the Buenos Aires province. The aircraft was engaged in a general aviation training flight. During the taxi phase of the operation, the aircraft was struck by a sudden gust of wind. This wind burst caused the tail of the aircraft to lift off the ground, resulting in the propeller making contact with the runway surface.
The investigation
The preliminary investigation focused on the sequence of events during the taxiing maneuver at Bragado Aerodrome. Investigators examined the environmental conditions at the time of the incident and the physical impact of the aircraft's movement. The investigation established that the aircraft sustained minor damage as a result of the propeller strike.
Findings
- The primary cause of the incident was a wind gust that exerted enough force to lift the tail section of the aircraft.
- The incident occurred during the taxi phase of a training flight.
- The mechanical damage was limited to the propeller and minor components following the impact with the runway.