What happened
On January 7, 1995, a PA-3yl Comanche, registration 3D-AFW, operated by Apostolic Faith Mission, departed from Capão do Leão (SSCO) bound for Belém Novo (SSBN). The flight was occupied by the pilot and one passenger.
Upon arrival at the destination, the pilot encountered significant difficulties with the aircraft's systems. The landing gear failed to extend properly, requiring approximately 15 minutes of troubleshooting before it finally locked down. During this period, the pilot also experienced radio transmission failures, rendering him unable to communicate with the airfield despite being able to hear other aircraft. Shortly thereafter, the pilot noticed a simultaneous loss of power in both engines. Witnesses observed smoke emanating from the left engine.
In an attempt to manage the emergency, the pilot directed the aircraft toward the banks of the Guaíba River near the threshold of runway 08. The aircraft struck the water surface with a high angle of descent and pitch, subsequently colliding with the riverbank and overturning. The occupants were able to exit the wreckage via the main doors and sustained two light injuries.
The investigation
CENIPA's investigation revealed a severe lack of maintenance oversight and regulatory compliance. The aircraft had been stationary in Capão do Leão for one year, and its maintenance records had not been updated since May 1992. Physical examination of the wreckage showed evidence of corrosion and insect nests within the structure. Furthermore, the pre-flight checks performed by a mechanic were limited to cleaning spark plugs and refueling, rather than a full annual inspection.
The investigation also scrutinized the pilot's credentials. While the pilot held a valid technical license, he had not performed a required check flight and had not flown for four months. Additionally, the pilot lacked a valid medical certificate and had operated the foreign-registered aircraft without proper overflight authorization.
Findings
- Deficient maintenance: The operator failed to implement adequate preventive or corrective maintenance services, leaving the aircraft in a precarious state.
- Inadequate pilot judgment: The pilot proceeded with the flight despite the lack of a recent check flight and the absence of a valid medical certificate.
and the aircraft's documentation was irregular.
- Simultaneous system failures: The aircraft suffered concurrent failures in the engines, hydraulic system (landing gear), and communication equipment.