What happened
On February 6, 2017, at approximately 09:00 UTC, an NEIVA EMB-202A, registration PT-UUG, was performing an agricultural application flight near Ipuã, São Paulo. The aircraft was operating from an improvised landing strip at Fazenda Aliança, a 1,000-meter runway characterized by deteriorated asphalt, debris, and uneven surfaces.
During the takeoff roll, the pilot initiated an aborted takeoff after perceiving a loss of engine power and a drop in RPM. The aircraft traveled 635 meters before the pilot applied the brakes and cut the fuel mixture. Following 240 meters of braking, the aircraft veered to the right, collided with an embankment, and overturned, coming to rest in an inverted position. The aircraft sustained substantial damage, while the pilot sustained light injuries.
The investigation
CENIPA investigators examined the aircraft's performance and the operational environment. Although the pilot reported a loss of power, subsequent bench tests of the engine and propeller governor revealed no mechanical malfunctions. The investigation found that the aircraft was operating with a total weight of 1,881kg, which was 81kg above the maximum takeoff weight for its category.
Furthermore, the investigation determined that the required takeoff distance to clear a 15-meter obstacle under the existing conditions was approximately 1,270 meters, with a ground roll of 800 meters. Given that the usable portion of the runway was only 875 meters due to water accumulation at the far end, the takeoff was extremely marginal. The investigation also noted that the fuel boost pump was left off during the takeoff, contrary to the operator's manual.
Findings
- The aircraft was operating significantly above its maximum takeoff weight.
- The takeoff performance calculations and weight and balance analysis were not performed prior to departure.
- The takeoff roll was performed on an irregular surface with insufficient usable runway length.
- The decision to abort the takeoff late in the ground roll contributed to the loss of directional control.
- Organizational failures and inadequate managerial supervision allowed the practice of operating under these unsafe conditions to become common within the company.