What happened
On February 5, 2015, at approximately 10:40 UTC, a Neiva EMB-201A, registration PT-GYG, was performing agricultural spraying operations near Tapira, Paraná. The aircraft had departed from a landing strip at Fazenda Santa Terezinha to spray a pasture area.
While flying over a eucalyptus plantation, the pilot encountered a sudden change in flight conditions. According to the pilot's account, the aircraft was flying approximately 10 meters above the tree canopy when a tailwind gust caused a significant loss of airspeed, dropping from 95 mph to 50 mph. In an attempt to maintain control, the pilot applied full power, deployed 30 degrees of flaps, and released the chemical load. Although the aircraft cleared the trees, it continued to lose altitude and airspeed, resulting in a forced landing in a pasture. During the landing, the aircraft rolled over, resulting in substantial damage to the airframe. The pilot was uninjured.
The investigation
CENIPA's investigation faced significant challenges due to the actions of the operator. The operator initially denied that the accident had occurred, necessitating police intervention to confirm the event. Furthermore, the aircraft was removed from the site, disassembled, and its components were sent for repair without authorization from the investigating authority (SERIPA V).
Investigators noted discrepancies between the pilot's statements, the operator's statements, the aircraft logbook, and the recorded meteorological conditions. Specifically, the pilot's claim of a tailwind gust severe enough to drop the airspeed by 45 mph was found to be inconsistent with the prevailing weather conditions at the time of the occurrence. Additionally, the investigation revealed that the operator was performing aircraft maintenance services using their own tools, despite not being a certified aeronautical maintenance organization.
Findings
- The primary contributing factors to the accident remain undetermined due to the lack of reliable data and the operator's attempts to obscure the occurrence.
- The pilot held valid medical and technical certifications and was experienced, with 850 total flight hours, including 450 hours in the aircraft model.
- The aircraft was within weight and balance limits and had a valid airworthiness certificate.
- The operator failed to report the accident to the authorities.
Safety action
CENIPA issued a safety recommendation to the National Civil Aviation Agency (ANAC) to take regulatory action regarding Ceal Aviação Agrícola Ltda. The recommendation aims to ensure that all aircraft maintenance services are performed only by officially certified and approved organizations.