In-flight structural damage — Tecnam P2008, training

Summary

During a training exercise in the Newcastle training area, the co-pilot side door of a Tecnam P2008JC opened unexpectedly in turbulence. The door struck the fuselage during oscillation and sustained damage to the door frame. The instructor took control and returned to Cessnock for landing. Neither instructor nor student were injured.

Investigation Findings (3)

1. 01The door latch had not been fully engaged before flight; a pre-flight check was conducted but not specifically focused on door latch security.
2. 02CASA issued a safety alert to all Tecnam P2008 operators on pre-flight door security procedures.
3. 03Tecnam Aircraft issued a service communication recommending installation of a latch-check indicator strip.