What happened
On August 14, 2015, at approximately 20:00 LT, a Beechcraft Baron G58, registration ZP-BJV, was performing a private flight from Asunción, Paraguay, to Laguna del Sauce International Airport (SULS) in Uruguay. The aircraft was carrying one pilot and six passengers.
During the landing phase on runway 19, the pilot was notified by air traffic controllers of significant water accumulation on the runway surface. Upon touchdown, the aircraft experienced hydroplaning, causing the pilot to lose directional control. The aircraft veered left, exiting the runway pavement and entering the safety area, traveling approximately 20 and 50 meters before returning to the runway.
While attempting to taxi to the general aviation apron, the pilot, facing reduced visibility due to heavy rain, mistakenly believed the aircraft was on a taxiway exit. This led to a second excursion into the right-side safety area, where the aircraft performed a 180-degree turn. Air traffic controllers subsequently directed the aircraft to remain stationary and provided a "follow me" vehicle to guide the aircraft to its parking position. All seven occupants (the pilot and six passengers) disembarked safely without injury.
The investigation
The CIAIA investigation examined the aircraft's flight history, maintenance records, and the environmental conditions at the time of the incident. Investigators analyzed the runway surface, finding debris including mud, grass, and broken glass from two damaged runway light beacons.
Technical analysis of the aircraft's weight and balance revealed that the aircraft had departed from Asunción at a weight exceeding its maximum takeoff weight by 470 lbs. Additionally, the investigation found that the aircraft was operating with seven occupants, despite having a maximum capacity of only six seats.
Findings
- The primary cause of the excursion was hydroplaning resulting from significant water accumulation on the runway.
- The pilot demonstrated an overconfidence in procedures and an inadequate reaction to landing in adverse meteorological conditions.
- The aircraft was operated in excess of its maximum takeoff weight during the initial departure from Paraguay.
- The aircraft exceeded its certified seating capacity by carrying seven persons in a six-seat configuration.
- The pilot failed to immediately report the runway excursions to air traffic control.
- Reduced visibility due to rain contributed to the pilot's disorientation during taxiing.