What happened
On January 5, 2017, a Cessna 172S, registration PR-GRS, was performing a visual flight from Coxim, MS, to the Comandante Gastão Aerodrome (SDVI) in Tangará da Serra, MT. The aircraft was carrying one pilot and three passengers for a personal trip related to a reforestation project.
During the final approach to runway 33, the aircraft struck a power line located near the runway threshold. The impact caused a loss of control, leading the aircraft to pitch down and strike the ground at an angle of approximately 135 degrees to the runway axis. The collision resulted in two fatalities (the pilot and one passenger) and two serious injuries to the remaining passengers. The aircraft sustained substantial damage, and the power line was also damaged.
The investigation
CENIPA's investigation established that the meteorological conditions were favorable for VFR flight, with no significant visibility or wind restrictions. The investigation found that the pilot, while qualified, had limited flight experience and had never previously landed at the SDVI aerodrome.
Investigators noted that the pilot did not perform a standard traffic pattern, instead opting for a direct, low-altitude approach. While the power line was marked with orange signs, the pilot failed to perceive them. Furthermore, although the aerodrome administrator had placed an "X" marking on threshold 33 to indicate it was impracticable for landings, this information had not been updated in the ROTAER because the administrator had not requested the change from the competent authorities. The investigation also found that the pilot had not established radio contact with ground personnel prior to the approach.
Findings
- The pilot's improvisational approach (diverging from standard traffic patterns) increased operational risk.
- Inadequate pilot judgment regarding the approach procedure and lack of radio coordination.
- Failure to perceive existing obstacles and runway markings due to the lack of a preliminary obstacle check or flyover.
- Lack of prior flight planning, specifically the failure to consult the aerodrome administrator regarding local conditions.
- Insufficient pilot experience and lack of familiarity with the specific landing site.