What happened
On April 11, 2007, an EMB-202 aircraft, registration PT-ULD, was performing agricultural spraying operations over sugarcane fields near Ipuã, São Paulo. The mission involved a "spiral" pattern, requiring frequent steep turns and altitude adjustments to cover the area. During a right-hand repositioning turn, the pilot attempted to clear a high-voltage power line network. During this maneuver, one of the landing gear struts struck a high-tension cable. This impact caused the aircraft to lose control and enter a descending trajectory, ultimately striking the ground and flipping onto its back.
The investigation
CENIPA's investigation established that the pilot was fully qualified, holding a valid commercial pilot license and agricultural ratings, with significant experience in the area. The aircraft's maintenance records were up to date, and no mechanical failures were identified; the engine was functioning correctly at the time of the collision. The investigation focused on the operational environment, noting that the terrain was mountainous and contained both low-voltage (10m) and high-voltage (30m) lines spaced approximately 20 meters apart. The investigation also examined the lack of a formal operational briefing from the operator regarding specific obstacles in the mission area.
Findings
- Improper altitude management: The pilot misjudged the necessary clearance and descended to the level of the low-voltage lines before successfully clearing the high-voltage lines.
- Inadequate flight planning: There was a lack of visual or cartographic verification of the area to identify obstacles and plan safer flight paths.
- Lack of managerial oversight: The operator did not provide a specific briefing to the crew to standardize safe procedures when encountering terrain obstacles and power lines.
- The pilot sustained minor injuries, while the EMB-202 suffered severe damage, rendering it a total loss.