What happened
On February 22, 2017, an Embraer EMB-202, registration PT-UUO, was performing an agricultural spraying mission in a rural area of Pedro Osório, Rio Grande do Sul. The aircraft, operated by Mirim Aviação Agrícola Ltda., had taken off from a landing strip in Monte Alegre to apply herbicide to a field.
While the pilot was executing a reversal turn (known as a 'balão' maneuver) to realign the aircraft with the application axis, the tip of the right wing made contact with the crops. This contact caused the pilot to lose control of the aircraft, leading to a collision with the ground. The aircraft sustained substantial damage, but the pilot remained uninjured.
The investigation
The investigation was initiated by SERIPA V after the occurrence was voluntarily reported by third parties. Investigators found that the aircraft was already undergoing repairs by the time the team arrived at the company hangar, which prevented a detailed analysis of the wreckage.
Evidence indicated that the pilot was familiar with the application area and that the terrain was free of irregularities that could have caused the accident. The pilot reported no mechanical failures that would have compromised flight control. The investigation also noted that the operator failed to follow standard procedures for reporting aeronautical occurrences as required by Brazilian aviation regulations.
Findings
- Improper use of flight controls during the maneuver.
- Errors in pilot judgment regarding the aircraft's position relative to the terrain.
- The pilot held valid medical and pilot certifications.
- The aircraft had a valid airworthiness certificate and up-to-date maintenance records.
- Meteorological conditions were suitable for flight.