Fatal Agricultural Flight Collision in Amazonas

Casualties unknown • BOCA DO ACRE, AM, BR

An Embraer EMB-202A aircraft crashed into a tree and the ground during an agricultural spraying operation in Boca do Acre, Brazil, resulting in the pilot's death.

What happened

On February 17, 2017, an Embraer EMB-202A, registration PT-VVG, was performing agricultural spraying operations at Fazenda Mustafa in Boca do Acre, Amazonas. During the application of inputs, the aircraft struck a tree and subsequently impacted the ground at an angle of approximately 30 degrees. The impact caused substantial damage to the aircraft. The pilot sustained fatal injuries after striking their head against the instrument panel during the deceleration phase of the crash.

The investigation

The investigation conducted by SERIPA VII focused on the operational and regulatory status of the flight. Investigators confirmed that while the aircraft's airworthiness certificate was valid and the aircraft was within weight and balance limits, the pilot was operating in significant violation of aviation regulations. The investigation was noted for its focus on the fact that the operation was conducted in total disagreement with current aeronautical legislation.

Findings

  • The pilot was not qualified to perform the type of flight, as they lacked the required agricultural pilot rating (PAGA).
  • The pilot's single-engine land airplane rating (MNTE) had been expired since 1990.
  • The pilot's medical certificate (CMA) had been expired since 1995.
  • The pilot was not wearing personal protective equipment (PPE) at the time of the accident.
  • The aircraft's maintenance records, including cell, engine, and propeller logbooks, were up to date.

Probable cause

The accident was caused by the pilot's lack of proper certification and legal authorization to conduct agricultural flight operations, compounded by the lack of use of personal protective equipment.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 2017-02-17 aircraft accident near BOCA DO ACRE, AM, BR?

An Embraer EMB-202A aircraft crashed into a tree and the ground during an agricultural spraying operation in Boca do Acre, Brazil, resulting in the pilot's death.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 2017-02-17 involved a aircraft, registration PTVVG, at BOCA DO ACRE, AM, BR.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The accident was caused by the pilot's lack of proper certification and legal authorization to conduct agricultural flight operations, compounded by the lack of use of personal protective equipment.

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