What happened
On June 6, 2001, at approximately 14:40, a Cessna 172, registration PT-WOW, was taxiing at São Paulo/Congonhas Airport (SBSP) toward runway 35R. The aircraft, operated by Representações Seixas S.A., was following instructions to cross runway 35L and hold at intersection Charlie, positioned behind a Boeing 73 and-300.
The pilot of the Cessna 172 stopped the aircraft approximately 20 meters behind the larger jet. Once the Boeing 737 was cleared to proceed with its taxi, the pilot applied power to the engines. The resulting jet blast struck the light aircraft with significant force, causing it to lift approximately five meters off the ground and drift nearly nine meters to the right.
In an attempt to prevent the aircraft from being pushed into the active runway, where another large aircraft was landing, the pilot applied maximum power to maintain position. However, the aircraft returned to the ground violently, striking the right wingtip and the nose gear against the pavement. The impact caused the propeller to fail and the engine to stop abruptly. The pilot sustained no injuries.
The investigation
CENIPA examined the sequence of events, the positioning of both aircraft, and the operational environment at the intersection. The investigation confirmed that the pilot of the Cessna 172 was fully qualified, with valid medical and technical certificates, and possessed significant flight experience. The investigation also noted that the Boeing 737 crew had operated their aircraft normally, applying power as part of standard taxi procedures.
Findings
- The primary cause of the incident was deficient judgment by the pilot of the Cessna 172, who failed to maintain a safe distance from the larger aircraft and did not account for the risks associated with jet blast.
- The aircraft sustained significant damage, including total loss of the propeller, severe engine damage, and damage to the landing gear and right wing.
- The proximity of 20 meters between the two aircraft was insufficient to mitigate the aerodynamic effects of the jet engines.