What happened
On February 4, 2013, an Embraer EMB-721D, registration PT-RXF, was operating a scheduled air taxi flight from Canarana, MT, to Aldeia Diauarum, MT. During the flight, the pilot encountered adverse meteorological conditions that prevented continued visual flight rules (VFR) operations and made returning to the origin aerodrome impossible.
To avoid the weather, the pilot elected to land at an uncertified and unregistered location, a dirt trail near Aldeia Kalapalo. After the weather conditions improved, the pilot attempted to depart from the same trail. Approximately 100 meters into the takeoff roll, the aircraft veered to the right and collided with nearby vegetation. The impact caused the nose gear to retract, resulting in the propeller striking the ground and causing substantial damage to the airframe, wings, and main landing gear. Both the pilot and the passenger escaped the accident without injury.
The investigation
CENIPA's investigation focused on the decision-making process regarding the landing site and the takeoff attempt. Investigators reviewed available meteorological data from nearby INMET stations in Querência and Gaúcha do Norte, as well as satellite imagery, which indicated that there was no precipitation in the immediate vicinity and relatively low cloud cover at the time of the accident.
The investigation established that the pilot's decision to use an uncertified landing strip violated Brazilian Civil Aviation Regulation RBAC 135.229(a), which prohibits the use of aerodromes that are not registered, approved, or suitable for the intended operation. Furthermore, investigators determined that the chosen takeoff site did not meet the necessary safety requirements for fixed-wing aircraft operations, as the terrain irregularities contributed to the loss of directional control.
Findings
- Improper flight planning and inadequate pilot judgment regarding the use of an unapproved landing site.
- Use of an uncertified aerodrome that did not meet safety standards for takeoff or landing.
- Adverse meteorological conditions encountered during the initial flight leg, which prompted the unscheduled landing.
- Flight indiscipline regarding adherence to established aviation regulations.