What happened
On February 2, 2021, at approximately 13:00 UTC, an EMB-201A Neiva, registration PT-UGV, was performing an agricultural spraying operation at Fazenda Limoeito in Mossâmedes, Goiás. The aircraft was tasked with applying fungicides to a sugarcane plantation.
During the takeoff roll from the 800-meter dirt strip, the aircraft lifted off only in the final meters of the available runway. Immediately after leaving the ground, the aircraft struck a nearby sugarcane crop and impacted the terrain. The aircraft sustained substantial damage, but the pilot emerged from the accident uninjured.
The investigation
CENIPA investigators examined the aircraft's performance data, the takeoff area, and the pilot's credentials. The investigation confirmed that the pilot was properly licensed and medically certified, with sufficient experience for the mission. The aircraft was operating within weight and balance limits, with a takeoff weight of 1,770 kg, below the maximum allowable 1,800 kg. The engine was found to be functioning normally at the time of impact, evidenced by transverse marks on the propeller blades.
Analysis of the takeoff performance revealed that under the prevailing conditions—including a temperature of 28°C, a pressure altitude of approximately 3,000 ft, and a tailwind component—the aircraft required a takeoff distance of approximately 1,288 meters to clear obstacles. The available 800-meter runway was significantly shorter than the required distance.
Findings
- The takeoff runway length was insufficient for the aircraft's performance requirements under the existing environmental conditions.
- A tailwind component further increased the required takeoff distance.
- Inadequate flight planning regarding runway length and performance calculations.
- Errors in pilot judgment during the takeoff execution.