What happened
On February 27, 2022, at approximately 13:00 UTC, an experimental aircraft, registration PP-XDB, departed from the Bebedouro Aerodrome in the state of São Paulo, Brazil. The flight was a private operation bound for Itumbiara, Goiás, carrying a pilot and one passenger.
Prior to the final takeoff, the crew had experienced difficulties starting the engine and noted issues related to the flight controls. After an initial aborted takeoff attempt, the aircraft departed on a second attempt using runway 13 with a tailwind component. Shortly after becoming airborne, the aircraft suffered a loss of performance. The aircraft entered a right-hand turn, lost lift, and rolled onto its right wing, resulting in a loss of control in flight. The aircraft struck a line of trees and was destroyed. The pilot and the passenger both sustained fatal injuries.
The investigation
CENIPA's investigation revealed significant discrepancies regarding the aircraft's identity and airworthiness. Although registered as a Europa aircraft, the investigation determined the aircraft was actually a Liberty XL2 (SN 0053), manufactured in the United States in 2007.
Investigators found that the aircraft utilized automotive-grade components, including sparkplug cables and batteries, which raised concerns regarding the adequacy of maintenance. While a recent airworthiness verification had been performed, the committee could not verify the specific tasks completed. Furthermore, the investigation noted that the pilot's decision-making and the handling of the aircraft's flight controls were critical factors in the sequence of events.