Engine Failure Leads to Emergency Landing in Americana, Brazil

Casualties unknown • AMERICANA, SP, BR

A single-engine INPAER Conquest 180 LSA experienced an engine failure shortly after takeoff, resulting in an emergency landing and substantial aircraft damage.

What happened

On February 18, 2023, at approximately 14:30 UTC, an INPAER Conquest 180 LSA, registered as PU-SLP, departed from the Americana Aerodrome (SDAI) in São Paulo, Brazil. The flight was a private operation destined for the Yolanda Penteado Aerodrome (SDLL) in Leme, Brazil, with one pilot on board.

Shortly after takeoff, the aircraft experienced an engine failure. The pilot attempted an emergency landing in an open area near the Luiz de Queiroz highway. During the landing sequence, the aircraft struck trees and a fence, resulting in substantial damage to the airframe. The pilot was uninjured during the event.

The investigation

The investigation by CENIPA focused on the sequence of events and the circumstances surrounding the site preservation. Investigators confirmed that the pilot held valid medical and single-engine land ratings and was qualified for the flight. Meteorological conditions at the time were favorable for visual flight rules (VFR).

However, the investigation faced significant obstacles regarding evidence preservation. The aircraft was removed from the accident site without authorization from the SIPAER investigation authority, which hindered the ability to analyze the scene. Furthermore, the accident was not reported to the investigation authorities on the day of the occurrence; the maintenance organization only notified the commission nine days after the event.

Investigators also noted discrepancies in the pilot's digital flight log, which had not been updated since June 2021, despite records in the aircraft's logbook indicating recent flights. Additionally, complete maintenance records for the airframe, engine, and propeller were not provided, and weight and balance data could not be verified.

Findings

  • The primary cause of the emergency landing was an engine failure following takeoff.
  • The aircraft sustained substantial damage due to impacts with vegetation and fencing during the emergency landing.
  • The investigation of contributing factors remains undetermined due to the unauthorized removal of the aircraft from the scene and the delayed reporting of the accident.

Probable cause

The engine failure occurred shortly after takeoff, but the specific cause remains undetermined because the aircraft was moved from the accident site without authorization and the accident was not reported to investigators until nine days later.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 2023-02-18 aircraft accident near AMERICANA, SP, BR?

A single-engine INPAER Conquest 180 LSA experienced an engine failure shortly after takeoff, resulting in an emergency landing and substantial aircraft damage.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 2023-02-18 involved a aircraft, registration PUSLF, at AMERICANA, SP, BR.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The engine failure occurred shortly after takeoff, but the specific cause remains undetermined because the aircraft was moved from the accident site without authorization and the accident was not reported to investigators until nine days later.

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