What happened
On January 7, 2014, an EMB-202 aircraft, registration PT-UME, was conducting a flight test to adjust its agricultural pesticide spraying system. The operation involved releasing water over an open area adjacent to the Gurgueia aerodrome (SNGG) in Bom Jesus do Guidade, Piauí. The flight proceeded with several passes, following a path parallel to the runway.
After completing the third spray pass, the aircraft entered an excessive pitch-up attitude while attempting a reversal turn (known as a "balão") to reposition for the fourth pass. This maneuver led to a loss of control in flight, causing the aircraft to strike the ground at a high angle of attack. The impact was followed by an explosion and a significant fire that consumed most of the airframe. The pilot sustained fatal injuries and passed away at the scene.
The investigation
CENIPA investigators examined the wreckage and the aircraft's maintenance history. Technical analysis of the engine, a Textron Lycing IO540K1J5D, revealed it was functioning normally and producing high power at the moment of the accident. No issues were found in the lubrication system, and internal components appeared to be in good condition. The aircraft's documentation, including airworthiness and maintenance logs, was up to date.
The investigation also reviewed the pilot's training records. While the pilot held valid commercial and agricultural licenses, investigators noted that his training in agricultural flight (PAGA) had previously highlighted a tendency to execute turns with excessive bank angles. Furthermore, the pilot had not been trained specifically on the EMB-202 model, having previously trained on different aircraft such as the AB-180, PA-18, and PA-25.
Findings
- The pilot may have applied abrupt control inputs during the reversal turn, causing the aircraft to enter an excessive pitch-up attitude and subsequent loss of lift.
- There was uncertainty regarding the adequacy of the pilot's transition to the EMB-202 model, as his previous agricultural flight training was conducted on different aircraft types.
- The investigation could not definitively determine if the pilot's previous training difficulties regarding turn angles persisted or if the maneuver was performed at an unsafely low altitude.