What happened
On March 15, 2007, an Aerotec A-122-B, registration PT-GAB, was conducting a local flight training mission consisting of touch-and-go maneuvers at the São José dos Campos Aerodrome in Brazil. The crew consisted of a flight instructor and a student pilot.
During the flight, the air traffic controller requested that the aircraft abbreviate its traffic pattern and turn immediately to the base leg to maintain separation from another aircraft on final approach. Following this instruction, the aircraft was observed entering a descending spiral. The aircraft struck the ground, impacting the roof and wall of a nearby residence and a mechanical workshop. The impact caused two fatalities among the crew and minor injuries to two individuals on the ground. The aircraft was destroyed.
The investigation
CENIPA's investigation examined the flight maneuvers, the training records of the student, and the coordination between the aircraft and air traffic services. Investigators analyzed the aircraft's maintenance logs, noting some irregularities in the recording of technical status in previous logbooks.
The investigation also scrutinized the training oversight at the aeroclube. Records indicated that the student had demonstrated recurring psychomotor and cognitive difficulties in previous flights, yet the training process continued without adequate corrective measures or specialized supervision. Furthermore, the investigation looked into the air traffic controller's role in suggesting the abbreviated pattern, which brought the two aircraft into close proximity.