What happened
On January 29, 2019, at approximately 14:30 UTC, a Neiva EMB202, registration PT-URO, was performing agricultural spraying operations over a soybean field in the rural area of Pontes e Lacerda, Mato Grosso. The aircraft, operated by Rondon Aviação Agrícola Ltda, was executing a reversing turn when the propeller struck dry branches at the top of an isolated tree.
The impact compromised the aircraft's flight stability. The pilot managed to complete the turn and performed an emergency landing in a nearby pasture. During the landing sequence, the aircraft struck several termite mounds and a wire fence, sliding approximately 50 meters before coming to a complete stop. The aircraft sustained substantial damage to the wings, propeller, landing gear, and the lower fuselage, though no fire was reported.
The investigation
CENIPA's investigation confirmed that the pilot was fully qualified, holding valid commercial licenses and agricultural ratings, with over 2,000 total flight hours. The aircraft's maintenance records, including the airworthiness certificate and engine/propeller logs, were up to date, and the aircraft was within weight and balance limits. Meteorological conditions at the time of the accident were favorable for the operation.
The investigation established that while the pilot had performed a reconnaissance flight to identify terrain hazards, the specific tree involved in the collision became obscured from view. During the maneuver, the aircraft's nose position prevented the pilot from maintaining visual contact with the obstacle, leading to the collision.