What happened
On January 2, 2013, at 16:45 UTC, an Embraer EMB-202A aircraft, registration PT-VVH, was performing a takeoff roll from a temporary landing strip located at Fazenda Dom Carlito in Viamão, Rio Grande do Sul. The aircraft was operated by Capivari Aviação Agrícola Ltda. for the purpose of agricultural pesticide application.
After traveling approximately 300 meters along the runway, the aircraft began to veer toward the left side of the strip. Despite the pilot's attempts to correct the directional deviation, the aircraft exited the runway entirely. The impact resulted in severe damage to the engine, propeller, cabin, and wings. The pilot sustained minor injuries during the event.
The investigation
CENIPA's investigation focused on the environmental conditions and the operational characteristics of the temporary runway. Investigators confirmed that the pilot held valid medical and flight crew certifications and possessed sufficient experience for the mission. The aircraft was also found to be in compliance with weight and balance limits, and all maintenance records for the airframe, engine, and propeller were up to date.
Findings
- The aircraft was operating from an improvised/temporary landing strip.
- Significant rainfall had occurred in the Porto Alegre and Viamão regions on both December 31, 2012, and January 1, 2013.
- The slippery condition of the runway, caused by heavy precipitation in the preceding days, likely contributed to the loss of directional control during the takeoff roll.