What happened
On October 12, 2021, at approximately 14:50 UTC, a Cessna 150L, registration LV-CMF, was undergoing engine startup for a dual instruction flight at Presidente Perón Airport in Neuquén, Argentina. During the startup sequence, the aircraft suddenly accelerated and veered to the left, departing the taxiway and colliding with an old airport building. At the time of the impact, the flight instructor was positioned outside the cockpit. Following the collision, the instructor approached the aircraft and manually shut down the engine. The student pilot sustained one minor injury, and the aircraft suffered significant damage to the airframe, including the left flap, both ailerons, and both fuel tanks, while the propeller blades were destroyed.
The investigation
The investigation analyzed video footage that tracked the aircraft's trajectory and established the timeline for emergency service response. Investigators examined the technical condition of the aircraft, the flight training records of the student pilot, and the effectiveness of the airport's Emergency Plan (PEA). The inquiry also reviewed the communication protocols used to activate the airport's Fire and Rescue Service (SSEI) following the accident.
Findings
- The investigation found no mechanical or technical failures in the aircraft or its systems that contributed to the loss of control.
- The student pilot, who had only 10 total flight hours, failed to respond adequately to the sudden movement of the aircraft. This lack of control was likely exacerbated by a 20-day gap in the student's recent flight training.
- The instructor was not in the cockpit during the engine startup, which prevented necessary supervision during a critical phase of operation.
- There were significant delays in the activation of the airport's emergency response. Communication difficulties and a lack of clarity regarding who to notify resulted in a 15-minute delay in alerting the SSEI. Furthermore, the accident site was not easily visible from the Control Tower, contributing to a total response time of approximately 17 minutes, exceeding the regulatory maximum of three minutes.
Safety action
- The investigation recommended that the National Civil Aviation Administration (ANAC) update the Airport Emergency Plan for Presidente Perón to include specific protocols for the movement area, not just the maneuvering area.
- It was recommended that all airport personnel undergo comprehensive training on the Emergency Plan to ensure effective communication and coordination during incidents.