What happened
On February 7, 2018, an EMB 202 aircraft, registration PT-URM, was performing agricultural spraying operations near Penápolis, São Paulo. The aircraft departed from a landing area at Fazenda Aruanda to apply pesticides before returning to the Penápolis Aerodrome.
During the mission, the aircraft struck a high-voltage power line. The impact occurred when the aircraft's tailwheel became entangled in the highest cable of the power line near a transmission tower. The force of the entanglement caused the airframe to break into three distinct sections: the forward fuselage, the rear fuselage, and the tailwheel assembly. The forward section of the aircraft continued forward and struck the ground at a steep 60-degree angle, while the rear section fell vertically near the base of the tower. The pilot sustained fatal injuries in the accident.
The investigation
CENIPA's investigation established that the aircraft was in a valid state of airworthiness and within weight and balance limits. While the pilot was fully qualified with a valid commercial license and agricultural rating, it was noted that this was the pilot's first season performing agricultural flight operations.
The investigation analyzed the wreckage and determined that the pilot likely attempted an abrupt climb to clear the power lines after realizing the presence of the transmission tower's anchoring rods too late. The investigation also found that the aircraft was operating under a private registration (TPP) but was performing commercial agricultural services. Evidence from the propeller blades suggested the engine was operational at the moment of impact.
Findings
- Inadequate flight planning, which failed to account for all operational variables, specifically the recognition of all obstacles in the area.
- Improper piloting judgment regarding the method of crossing the power lines and the aircraft's ability to maintain safe clearance from the obstacles.
- Lack of organizational support and safety management, as there was no formal structure to manage operational risks or provide technical oversight for these specialized flights.
- Inadequate managerial supervision regarding the risks associated with the pilot's limited experience in agricultural operations and the presence of high-voltage hazards.