What happened
On August 18, 2003, at approximately 12:00 local time, an Aviat A-1 Husky, registration PH-AWH, was performing an advertising banner pickup at Rotterdam Airport. The aircraft, operated by Sand Air, was tasked with retrieving a 75 m² banner consisting of 25 letters and symbols. After taking off from runway 24 and completing an initial circuit, the pilot attempted to pick up the banner from a prepared location on the airfield.
Following the successful attachment of the banner, the aircraft climbed steeply. However, as the pilot attempted to level the plane, the aircraft began to roll left and right before dropping a wing to the right. The aircraft then entered a nose-down attitude and struck the ground almost vertically. The pilot, a 26-year-old experienced professional, sustained fatal injuries at the scene.
The investigation
The investigation conducted by the Dutch Safety Board (OVV) examined the aircraft's maintenance logs, the flight conditions, and the operational procedures of the operator. Investigators found that the aircraft's weight and center of gravity were within limits and that the weather conditions were not a contributing factor. Technical examination of the wreckage revealed no mechanical failures that could have caused the accident. Notably, the stall warning system was found in the off position.
Furthermore, the investigation scrutinized the operator's adherence to industry standards. It was discovered that the pilot had been intentionally using reduced engine power during the pickup maneuver to preserve the engine, a practice known to the aircraft owner. The investigation also noted irregularities in the aircraft's maintenance logs, which the pilot had updated prematurely.
Findings
- The aircraft entered an aerodynamic stall immediately after the banner pickup maneuver.
- The primary cause of the accident was the failure to use full engine power during the pickup procedure, which significantly increased the risk of a stall.
- The operator, Sand Air, had deviated from the industry-standard "Handboek voor de Nederlandse reclamesleper" (Handbook for the Dutch Advertising Banner Tug) without implementing safety safeguards in their own procedures.
- The aircraft owner was aware that the pilot was performing pickups with reduced power to save the engine but did not intervene.
Safety action
- The OVV recommended that the Minister of Transport and Water Management reconsider the current regime of self-regulation and oversight for the banner towing sector to minimize operational risks.