What happened
On 16 January 2017, a Cessna 172S, registration PK-MUA, was conducting a solo training flight near Blimbingsari Airport, Banyuwangi. The flight, operated by PT. Mandiri Utama Flight Academy, was returning to the airport following exercises in the Panggang Bay training area.
During the final approach to runway 08, the aircraft experienced a ballooning effect just before touchdown. In an attempt to correct the situation, the student pilot pushed the control column forward. This action caused the aircraft's nose to pitch down abruptly, resulting in the propeller striking the runway. The impact caused the nose landing gear to collapse and ruptured a fuel line in the lower right fuselage. The resulting fuel spill, ignited by sparks from the aircraft's contact with the runway, triggered a significant fire. The student pilot successfully evacuated the aircraft, and no injuries were reported.
The investigation
Investigators from the KNKT examined the wreckage and found that the aircraft's engine and airframe were heavily damaged by both the initial impact and the subsequent fire. The investigation confirmed that the fuel line rupture was a direct consequence of the propeller strike and nose gear collapse.
Regarding the emergency response, the investigation noted that while Airport Rescue and Fire Fighting (ARFF) services responded promptly, the fire suppression effort was inefficient. Although the responders utilized over 6,500 liters of water and foam—far exceeding the standard requirement for this aircraft type—the fire continued for approximately 20 minutes. The investigation determined that the wind conditions and the distance at which the extinguishing agent was sprayed caused the foam to disperse before reaching the base of the fire.
Findings
- The student pilot utilized a recovery technique that contradicted established procedures for handling aircraft ballooning, leading to the nose-down impact.
- The student pilot had previously experienced similar ballooning incidents, suggesting that prior corrective training had not been effective.
- The impact of the propeller strike caused the rupture of the fuel line, which served as the primary source of the fire.
- The fire extinguishing process was ineffective due to the wind blowing the extinguishing agent away from the fire's origin.
- The prolonged duration and excessive use of extinguishing agents indicated that ARFF personnel training may have been inadequate for handling an actual emergency of this nature.
Safety action
Following the investigation, the KNKT issued several recommendations:
- Mandiri Utama Flight Academy should improve training and demonstration methods to ensure student pilots correctly understand approach and landing techniques.
- Blimbingsari Airport Operator should enhance rescue and firefighting training to ensure personnel can effectively manage real-world emergencies.
- The Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) should review oversight processes to ensure ARFF capabilities are sufficient at all airports.