What happened
On March 13, 2020, at approximately 14:30 UTC, a Cessna 310R, registration PR-GSG, crashed in a wooded area near the runway 15 threshold of the Tefé Aerodrome (SBTF) in Amazonas, Brazil. The aircraft, which was operating as a private flight, sustained substantial damage during the impact. The two occupants on board sustained fatal injuries.
At the time of the accident, the flight's origin, destination, and purpose were unknown. No flight plan had been filed with air traffic control authorities prior to the occurrence. While meteorological conditions at the aerodrome were favorable for flight, the investigation revealed several critical safety breaches regarding the aircraft's configuration and the crew's qualifications.
The investigation
CENIPA investigators examined the wreckage and the circumstances surrounding the flight. The investigation focused on the airworthiness of the aircraft and the legality of the crew's credentials. Investigators recovered 30 plastic containers from the site, which chemical analysis by the Federal Police confirmed contained aviation gasoline.
During the inspection of the wreckage, investigators discovered that the aircraft's fuel system had been significantly altered. Two stainless steel tanks, each with an approximate capacity of 100 liters, had been installed inside the passenger cabin. These tanks were connected using industrial-grade hydraulic hoses not certified for aviation use. Additionally, unauthorized electrical outlets were found installed on the left circuit breaker panel.
Findings
- The aircraft was not in an airworthy condition due to unauthorized and undocumented modifications to the fuel and electrical systems.
- Neither occupant was qualified to operate the aircraft; the pilot lacked both a valid medical certificate and an ANAC-issued pilot license, while the second occupant lacked a valid pilot license.
- Essential technical documentation, including aircraft logbooks (cell, engine, and propeller) and maintenance records for the modifications, could not be located.
- The aircraft was transporting large quantities of aviation gasoline in uncertified plastic canisters.
- No flight plan was submitted to air traffic control services.