What happened
On March 13, 2019, a Cessna 182P, registration TG-JHS, was performing a private flight from La Aurora International Airport in Guatemala City to the Cobán Aerodrome in Alta Verapaz. The aircraft was carrying two occupants: the pilot and one passenger. During the landing phase at Cobán, the pilot misjudged the runway approach, leading to a loss of depth. This error caused the aircraft to strike the runway with the nose gear before the main landing gear made contact, resulting in structural damage to the aircraft, including damage to the nose gear position and the firewall.
The investigation
The DGAC/UIA investigation examined the aircraft's maintenance records, flight operations, and environmental conditions. The investigation confirmed that the aircraft was properly certified, equipped, and maintained according to regulations. Maintenance logs indicated that all required services were up to date. The investigation also reviewed the pilot's medical and psychological status, finding no evidence of physical or mental impairment that would have contributed to the accident. Meteorological conditions at the time of landing were found to be clear, with visibility and cloud cover not being contributing factors.
Findings
- The primary cause of the accident was the pilot's erroneous perception of the runway, which led to an improper landing technique.
- The landing was executed with a loss of depth, causing the nose gear to absorb the initial impact.
- The aircraft was operating within its weight and balance limits, carrying only one passenger and no additional cargo.
- While the pilot was unable to confirm the specific wind intensity at the surface, wind conditions were noted as a potential contributing factor.
Safety action
- Operators are advised to maintain high levels of concentration and experience during the landing phase to ensure proper control inputs and approach corrections.
- It is recommended that wind speed and intensity data be clearly visible and transmitted by qualified personnel via radio to enhance operational safety during landing phases.