What happened
On February 10, 2020, at approximately 21:35 UTC, a Neiva EMB-201 (registration PT-GFO) was performing an agricultural spraying operation near Uruaçu, Goiás. The aircraft, operated by Xingu Aero Agrícola Ltda., was attempting to apply fungicide to a sugarcane crop.
The takeoff began approximately 100 meters from the edge of the landing area due to surface imperfections and adjacent obstacles. During the climb, the aircraft's irrigation boom made contact with the sugarcane plantation, which stood about 2.5 meters high. This contact created significant drag, causing the aircraft to lose altitude and strike the ground approximately 30 meters after the initial impact. The impact caused the main landing gear to rupture, leading the aircraft to ground loop 180 degrees and capsize. The pilot sustained minor injuries, while the aircraft suffered substantial damage.
The investigation
CENIPA investigators examined the aircraft's performance, the pilot's recent experience, and the operational environment. The investigation confirmed that the engine was functioning normally and that the aircraft was within its weight and balance limits, with a takeoff weight of 1,577.29 kg (well below the maximum of 1,800 kg).
Investigators analyzed the takeoff configuration, noting that the pilot had set the flaps to the 20° position. While the pilot intended to use this setting to increase lift, the manufacturer's manual specifically recommends a takeoff flap setting of 8°. Furthermore, the investigation looked into the pilot's recent flight history, noting that while the pilot was experienced in agricultural operations, there was no evidence of recent flight experience in this specific aircraft class within the 90 days preceding the accident. The investigation also assessed the landing strip, which was noted to have several imperfections.
Findings
- The pilot's decision to use a 20° flap setting, which increased drag and altered climb performance, was a key factor.
- There was a lack of situational awareness regarding the risks of operating so close to the edge of the plantation, especially since previous flights had passed closely over the crops without incident.
- The takeoff area's physical condition and imperfections likely hindered the aircraft's acceleration.
- Inadequate flight planning and decision-making regarding the takeoff distance and obstacle clearance contributed to the collision.
- There was evidence of inadequate management supervision regarding risk management and operational planning.