What happened
On January 5, 2019, an agricultural flight involving a Neiva EMB 202 aircraft, registration PT-UQQ, was returning to its operational base in Restinga Secim, Rio Grande do Sul, following a crop spraying mission. During the transit from the Jonas Müller landing area, the aircraft experienced a sudden loss of engine power.
The pilot attempted an emergency landing in a soybean field. During the maneuver, the aircraft struck a fence and subsequently overturned upon hitting the ground. While the aircraft sustained substantial damage, the pilot emerged from the wreckage uninjured.
The investigation
CENIPA investigators examined the engine, a Lycoming IO-540-K1J5D, and analyzed fuel and oil samples. Laboratory tests conducted by the Institute of Aeronautics and Space (IAE) confirmed that the aviation gasoline and lubricating oil met all specifications and showed no signs of contamination.
Upon disassembly and inspection of the engine, investigators discovered a foreign object lodged in the fuel control unit's inlet filter. Chemical analysis of the material identified it as cellulose, consistent with cotton rags or cleaning tow (estopa). The investigation determined that this debris likely partially obstructed the fuel flow to the fuel injection unit, leading to the power loss experienced in flight.
Findings
- The presence of cotton rag debris in the fuel filter inlet caused a partial blockage of the fuel supply to the engine.
- The contamination was attributed to inadequate maintenance practices.
- The pilot was properly qualified, licensed, and the aircraft was within weight and balance limits with valid airworthiness documentation.