Training flight accident at Ribeirão Preto-Leite Lopes Airport

2 fatalities • Ribeirão Preto, Brazil • Takeoff (climb)

A training flight involving a twin-engine aircraft resulted in a fatal collision with a truck and a tree during a simulated engine failure maneuver.

What happened

A training mission originated in São Paulo, intended to proceed to Ribeirão Preto with a scheduled stop in Uberaba. During the approach phase at Ribeirão Preto-Leite Lopes Airport, the instructor initiated a procedure to simulate an engine malfunction by reducing power on the left engine to facilitate a touch-and-go maneuver.

Following the touchdown, the power lever for the left engine remained at idle. Fearing the aircraft would be unable to stop within the available runway length, the captain assumed control and attempted an immediate takeoff. While the aircraft successfully lifted off, it overran the runway, coming to a halt approximately 92 meters beyond the threshold. During the excursion, the aircraft struck a tree and a truck. The impact caused the aircraft to catch fire and be destroyed. The accident resulted in two fatalities, including one pilot and a driver in the truck, and three injuries sustained by the remaining crew members.

Findings

The accident was driven by the left engine power lever remaining in the idle position following the simulated failure procedure, which prevented the aircraft from maintaining sufficient thrust for a standard landing and necessitated an emergency takeoff attempt.

Probable cause

The pilot's decision to attempt an emergency takeoff after the left engine failed to increase power prevented the aircraft from stopping on the runway.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 1996-06-04 Learjet 25 accident near Ribeirão Preto, Brazil?

A training flight involving a twin-engine aircraft resulted in a fatal collision with a truck and a tree during a simulated engine failure maneuver.

Were there any fatalities in the 1996-06-04 Learjet 25 accident?

The accident was fatal, resulting in 2 fatalities.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 1996-06-04 involved a Learjet 25, registration PT-KBC, operated by Aeroexecutivos Taxi Aéreo, at Ribeirão Preto, Brazil.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The pilot's decision to attempt an emergency takeoff after the left engine failed to increase power prevented the aircraft from stopping on the runway.

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