What happened
On November 5, 2008, a Piper PA-24-260, registration PT-DON, was performing a flight from Atibaia, SP, to Ponta Grossa, PR. While approaching the Ponta Grossa aerodrome (SSZW) on the final approach for runway 07, the pilot encountered an aircraft landing on the opposite runway (25). To avoid a collision, the pilot executed a missed approach.
During the maneuver, the pilot performed a left turn to re-enter the traffic pattern. While at a low altitude, the aircraft suddenly lost altitude and struck a cornfield approximately 500 meters from the runway. The accident resulted in two fatalities (the pilot and one passenger) and one serious injury to another passenger. The aircraft sustained severe damage.
The investigation
CENIPA investigators examined the wreckage and interviewed witnesses, including a surviving passenger. The investigation confirmed that the engine and structural components were functioning normally prior to impact, and there was no evidence of mechanical failure or fuel starvation. The aircraft was within weight and balance limits, and the weather conditions were favorable for VFR flight.
Investigators noted that the pilot had not established radio contact on the local frequency (123.45 MHz) prior to the approach, which led to the unexpected encounter with the other aircraft. Additionally, the investigation looked into the pilot's recent activity, noting that the pilot had been working late the previous night and had participated in several social events over the weekend.
Findings
- The pilot executed a left turn at low airspeed and low altitude, which likely induced an aerodynamic stall.
- The pilot failed to coordinate traffic via radio, leading to the surprise encounter that necessitated the missed approach.
- Potential pilot fatigue may have impaired cognitive functions, such as attention, memory, and judgment, due to lack of sleep and recent social engagements.
- There were indications that the pilot may not have been up to date on emergency training or recovery procedures for abnormal attitudes.
- The pilot's lack of recent flight frequency may have contributed to diminished performance during the high-workload maneuver.