What happened
On February 25, 2020, at approximately 13:30 UTC, a Neiva EMB-201, registration PT-GQI, was performing agricultural spraying operations near Paracatu, Minas Gerais. The aircraft, operated by Aerominas Aviação Agrícola Ltda., was executing the final passes of a spraying area when it struck a steel cable attached to a high-voltage power line. The impact caused the cable to rupture and led to a loss of control, resulting in the aircraft crashing into the ground approximately 100 meters from the power tower.
The investigation
CENIPA investigators examined the wreckage and the flight conditions. The investigation confirmed that the pilot held valid commercial licenses and medical certification. The aircraft was airworthy, within weight and balance limits, and all maintenance logs were up to date. Meteorological conditions were favorable for flight.
Physical evidence at the scene showed a sheared mark on the landing gear consistent with contact with the steel cable. Analysis of the propeller indicated that the engine was producing power at the moment of impact. Interviews with the pilot and local utility officials confirmed the timing of the cable rupture. The investigation revealed that the pilot had been using the power lines as a visual reference for performing reversal turns, intentionally flying at a low altitude near the lines to maximize efficiency and coverage area.
Findings
- The pilot was performing his first season of agricultural operations.
- The pilot used the high-voltage lines as a visual reference for maneuvering.
- The pilot likely misjudged the height of the top-most cable, potentially confusing it with lower-level lines, leading to the collision with the steel cable.
- Factors such as perception and the pilot's limited experience in this specific type of operation were identified as contributing elements.