What happened
On February 13, 2013, a Neiva EMB-201A, registration PT-GTQ, was performing agricultural spraying operations in Rosário do Sul, Rio Grande do Sul. The aircraft had departed from a landing strip at Fazenda Curral de Pedras to apply fungicide to a soybean crop. After approximately 30 minutes of flight time, while the pilot was performing finishing passes (arremates) over the field, the aircraft struck the ground near the banks of the Santa Maria River.
The impact caused extensive damage to the aircraft, including the engine, propeller, fuselage, both wings, landing gear, fuel system, and electrical system. The pilot sustained serious injuries during the crash.
The investigation
CENIPA investigators examined the aircraft's maintenance records and mechanical condition following the accident. The investigation confirmed that the pilot held valid medical and technical certifications and was qualified for the operation, with 422 total flight hours and 110 hours in this specific model. The aircraft's airworthiness certificate was also valid, and the aircraft was within weight and balance limits at the time of the flight.
While the investigation noted that the first parts of the airframe, engine, and propeller logbooks were not up to date regarding monthly hour entries, the maintenance services were otherwise considered periodic. Furthermore, a technical analysis of the engine was performed, but the results were inconclusive regarding any mechanical malfunction that could have contributed to the accident.