What happened
On January 11, 2014, a Neiva EMB-201A, registration PT-UDO, was performing an agricultural flight for the purpose of calibrating spray nozzles. The aircraft departed from Sítio São Luiz, Paraná, destined for Sítio São Paulo, in the municipality of Goioerê.
As the pilot began the initial pass for the calibration procedure, the aircraft struck an electrical power line. Following the impact with the wires, the pilot lost control of the aircraft, which subsequently collided with vegetation near the plantation area. The impact caused substantial damage to the airframe, engine, and propeller.
The investigation
CENIPA's investigation confirmed that the pilot held valid medical and technical certifications, with 440 total flight hours and 280 hours specifically in the aircraft model. The aircraft was in compliance with airworthiness requirements, and its weight and balance were within manufacturer specifications.
The investigation established that the pilot performed three passes over the area: the first two were vertical passes for observation, and the third was the start of the calibration maneuver when the collision occurred. Notably, the operator reported the occurrence three days after the event, and the pilot had not performed a ground or visual reconnaissance of the site prior to the flight.
Findings
- Inadequate flight planning.