What happened
On January 19, 2016, a Neiva EMB-202A, registration PT-UTQ, was performing a ferry flight from Pederneiras to a landing area in Barra Bonita, São Paulo, for agricultural spraying operations. While approaching the destination, the aircraft's Lycoming IO-540-K1J5 engine experienced a significant loss of power, accompanied by a drop in RPM and oil pressure. The pilot attempted emergency procedures but was unable to restore engine function. To avoid a more serious accident, the pilot performed an emergency landing in a sugarcane plantation. During the landing, the aircraft's landing gear struck a row of organic fertilizer, causing the gear to collapse and resulting in substantial damage to the aircraft. The pilot sustained minor injuries.
The investigation
CENIPA investigators examined the aircraft's engine and fuel systems to determine the cause of the power loss. The investigation confirmed that the pilot was fully qualified with valid medical and agricultural certifications, and the aircraft was airworthy, properly balanced, and within weight limits. Mechanical inspections of the Lycoming engine revealed no significant mechanical defects. However, laboratory analysis of fuel samples from the wing tanks revealed that the ethanol used did not meet the technical standards established by the National Agency of Petroleum, Natural Gas and Biofuels (ANP). The left wing tank contained ethanol with an alcohol content of 91.5%, while the right wing tank—which was supplying the engine at the time of the incident—contained ethanol with an alcohol content of only 78.5%.
Findings
- The primary cause of the engine failure was the use of off-specification fuel with an inadequate alcohol content.
- Inadequate managerial supervision regarding the planning and execution of fuel quality control and procurement processes.