What happened
On February 3, 2021, a Cessna 206F (registration PT-KVW), operated by Voare Táxi Aéreo Ltda., crashed in the Serra do Apiaú region of Mucaja/RR, Brazil. The aircraft departed from Aeródromo Pouso da Águia (SWPD) at approximately 15:00 UTC, bound for Aeródromo Paa-Piu (SWMV) to perform a cargo transport mission.
The flight was planned under Visual Flight Rules (VFR) with a cruising altitude of 4,500 feet. However, the aircraft struck terrain in a heavily forested area at an elevation of 4,593 feet. The impact caused substantial damage to the aircraft, including the engine, propeller, landing gear, and wing components. The pilot sustained fatal injuries.
The investigation
CENIPA's investigation established that the aircraft was within weight and balance limits and that its airworthiness documentation was up to date. While the pilot was experienced and held a valid commercial license, his instrument rating (IFRA) had been expired since 2010, and the aircraft itself was not certified for flight under Instrument Meteorological Conditions (IMC).
Investigators analyzed satellite and radar imagery, which revealed the presence of Towering Cumulus (TCU) clouds and localized precipitation along the route. These conditions likely restricted visibility, making it difficult to maintain VFR conditions. The investigation also noted that the pilot had recently acquired a new personal GPS unit and was still adapting to its operation, which may have increased workload and reduced situational awareness.
Furthermore, the investigation found that the pilot had only about 90 minutes between completing a previous flight and departing for this mission. This limited window may have resulted in inadequate flight planning, specifically regarding the selection of a safe minimum altitude to clear the terrain.
Findings
- Adverse meteorological conditions that likely prevented maintaining VFR flight.
- Inadequate flight planning regarding terrain clearance and route selection.
- Deficient managerial planning and oversight by the operator.
- Impaired decision-making processes during the flight.
- The aircraft's altitude (4,500 ft) was lower than the elevation of the impact site (4,593 ft).