What happened
On February 22, 1990, an EMB 711C, registration PT-NJM, was performing a flight from the Alagoas Aeroclube (SNGS) to the Aracaju Aeroclube (SNAU). The flight proceeded normally until the landing phase at SNAU. During the landing rollout, several pedestrians suddenly crossed the runway.
The pilot attempted an evasive maneuver but was unable to avoid a collision between the aircraft's left wing leading edge and a 9-year-old child. In an attempt to stop the aircraft and prevent further contact, the pilot applied heavy braking, which caused the wheels to lock and the aircraft to skid. The aircraft subsequently veered off the runway and struck a small hill, resulting in the failure of the right main landing gear. The occupants of the aircraft were uninjured, but the pedestrian sustained severe head trauma.
The investigation
CENIPA investigators examined the operational environment at the Aracaju Aeroclube. The investigation confirmed that the aircraft's documentation, maintenance, and the pilot's licenses were all valid and up to date. Meteorological conditions at the time of the accident were good.
The investigation focused on the lack of physical barriers at the aerodrome. It was established that the absence of perimeter fencing allowed for the constant movement of people, vehicles, and animals across the operational area. Furthermore, the investigation noted a pattern of behavior among local residents who frequently crossed the runway without regard for safety, often treating the runway as a natural path for transit.
Findings
- Inadequate Infrastructure: The aerodrome lacked perimeter fencing or protective barriers to isolate the runway from the surrounding community.
- Lack of Warning Systems: There was an absence of signage warning pedestrians of the dangers associated with crossing the active runway.
- Unsafe Local Behavior: The local population frequently crossed the runway, a practice that had become normalized due to the lack of physical and regulatory enforcement.
- Pilot Response: The loss of directional control was a direct result of the pilot's heavy braking application intended to avoid the pedestrian.