What happened
On January 23, 2008, an EC120B helicopter, registration PP-MJV, departed from the Vila Velha helipad in Angra dos Reis, Rio de Janeiro, en route to São José dos Campos, São Paulo. During the flight, the aircraft collided with terrain in the Serra do Mar mountain range near Ubatuba.
The impact was high-energy, resulting in the total destruction of the aircraft. The pilot and one passenger sustained two fatalities at the scene. Due to the dense Atlantic Forest vegetation and the remote location, the wreckage was not discovered until 18 months later, when it was found by hikers.
The investigation
CENIPA investigators examined the wreckage once it was located in July 2009. Analysis of the recovered engine indicated that it was producing power at the moment of impact. While the pilot held a valid private helicopter license and type rating for the EC120B, the aircraft's logbooks and the pilot's flight logs were destroyed in the crash, making it impossible to verify specific flight experience.
Investigators also examined the aircraft's navigation equipment, noting the presence of two GPS units, including one with a Moving Map feature. However, records suggested the database for these units was outdated. The investigation also considered meteorological data from the Santos aerodrome, which indicated restricted visibility and low ceilings in the region.
Findings
- Adverse weather conditions: Localized clouds and fog in the mountainous Serra do Mar region likely restricted visibility, acting as a determining factor in the collision.
- Flight planning: It is probable that the pilot did not adequately plan the flight, specifically regarding weather monitoring and the establishment of alternative routes should visibility degrade.
- Over-reliance on technology: The presence of a Moving Map GPS may have contributed to the decision to continue the flight despite deteriorating visual conditions, potentially leading to a loss of situational awareness regarding the surrounding terrain.
Safety action
CENIPA issued a safety recommendation to the National Civil Aviation Agency (ANAC) to disseminate the findings of this report through seminars and lectures, specifically targeting private helicopter pilots and owners to improve operational safety.