What happened
On January 20, 2022, an AT-602 aircraft, registration PS-RAF, was performing a ferry flight from Mimoso do Oeste Aerodrome to a landing area in São Desidero, Bahia. Shortly after takeoff, the aircraft maintained a low altitude near the runway departure end before initiating a steep climb with a significant pitch-up angle.
At an estimated altitude between 300 and 500 feet, the aircraft began a rapid rotation of the wings to the right, eventually reaching an inverted position. Following this maneuver, the aircraft lost control and entered a high sink rate. The aircraft struck an electrical transmission line before impacting the ground in an upside-down attitude with almost no forward displacement. The pilot sustained fatal injuries, and the aircraft suffered substantial structural damage.
The investigation
CENIPA's investigation focused on the sequence of events and the aerodynamic behavior of the aircraft during the unusual maneuver. Investigators examined the aircraft's maintenance records, which showed the plane had undergone a 100-hour inspection just ten minutes prior to the accident. The engine, propeller, and airframe logs were up to date, and no mechanical failures or fuel contamination were identified.
The investigation also reviewed the pilot's experience, noting that while the pilot was qualified and held valid ratings, the flight profile used—an "American" takeoff—was not documented in the aircraft's flight manual. Furthermore, the aircraft's limitations explicitly prohibited aerobatic maneuvers and spins.
Findings
- The pilot performed a takeoff profile that deviated from manufacturer recommendations.
- The aircraft entered an uncontrolled rotation and likely experienced a flat spin due to the abrupt maneuver and high pitch-up angle.
- The pilot may have exceeded the critical Angle of Attack (AoA), leading to an unrecoverable stall at a low altitude.
- The aircraft's flight manual prohibits the type of maneuvers performed during the event.
- The pilot's decision-making was influenced by an inappropriate posture characterized by improvisation and non-compliance with established procedures.