What happened
On June 30, 2020, a Cessna 182Q, registration TG-BEK, was operating a private flight from La Aurora International Airport in Guatemala City to the Bananera Aerodrome in Morales, Izabal. The flight, which included the pilot and one passenger, was conducted under Visual Flight Rules (VFR) in favorable meteorological conditions, featuring good visibility and light winds.
Upon arrival at the Bananera Aerodrome, the aircraft experienced an uncontrolled landing. During the touchdown, the pilot lost the sense of depth, causing the nose gear to strike the runway surface first. This initial impact triggered a series of uncontrolled bounces, often referred to as a "rabbit jump," along the runway. The sequence of events resulted in significant damage to the aircraft's nose gear, propeller blades, and the firewall.
The investigation
The DGAC/UIA investigation examined the aircraft's maintenance records, the pilot's credentials, and the physical wreckage. The investigation confirmed that the aircraft's maintenance was up to date according to the manufacturer's program and that the aircraft was in a fully airworthy condition. The pilot, who had approximately one year of flight experience, was found to be in good physical and psychological condition, with no evidence of impairment or fatigue.
Investigators analyzed the impact site and the damage to the airframe. The inspection of the control surfaces revealed they were operating normally, and the aircraft's systems were functioning correctly prior to the impact. The investigation concluded that the damage to the nose wheel, propeller, and firewall was directly caused by the force of the impact during the uncontrolled landing sequence.
Findings
- The primary cause of the damage was an uncontrolled landing caused by the pilot losing the sense of depth during the approach.
- The nose gear made primary contact with the runway, leading to uncontrolled bouncing.
- The aircraft was properly maintained, and all systems were operational at the time of the accident.
- The pilot and passenger sustained no injuries.
Safety action
- It is recommended that flight instructors place greater emphasis on teaching students how to maintain a proper sense of depth during the landing phase.
- It is recommended that flight schools incorporate specific training modules regarding the perception of depth and its importance during touchdown into their curricula.