What happened
On August 27, 2009, a Robinson R44 II, registration PR-INR, was performing a flight from Rio das Ostras to Rio de Janeiro. While overflying Praia de Camboinhas in Niterói, the pilot observed the auxiliary fuel pump failure warning light illuminate.
Fearing the need to cross Guanabara Bay with a known system abnormality, the pilot decided to perform a precautionary landing in an unprepared, open field. During the landing maneuver, the aircraft's right skid sank into a hole in the terrain. This caused the fuselage to tilt abruptly to the right and rear, leading the main rotor blades to strike the ground. The impact was severe enough to sever the tail boom and tail rotor section. Despite the severe damage to the airframe, the pilot and one passenger escaped the accident uninjured.
The investigation
CENIPA investigators examined the aircraft's fuel system and the pilot's decision-making process. Testing of the auxiliary electric fuel pump revealed that it was performing below manufacturer specifications due to several leaks in the housing and drain. While the pump was malfunctioning, the investigation established that the engine could have continued to operate normally using the mechanical pump.
Investigators also reviewed the pilot's actions, noting that the pilot did not consult the emergency checklist before deciding to land. Furthermore, the investigation looked into the availability of alternative landing sites, noting that several certified helipads were available in the Niterói area that could have been used for a safer landing.
Findings
- The primary cause was the inappropriate decision to perform an immediate emergency landing in an unprepared area when the manufacturer's procedures allowed for landing "as soon as practicable" at a suitable facility.
- The pilot failed to consult the aircraft's checklist, which would have clarified that the engine could continue to operate normally.
- Inadequate flight planning contributed to the accident, as the pilot was unaware of nearby certified helipads that could have provided a safer landing environment.
- The auxiliary fuel pump failure was caused by performance degradation and leaks, though the investigation could not definitively determine if maintenance practices contributed to these leaks.