What happened
On April 15, 2001, a PA-28-180 departed from Florianópolis (SBFL) bound for Canela (SSCN). Upon arriving near the destination, the pilot encountered adverse weather conditions and low ceilings that prevented a visual approach. After circling the area for approximately 34 minutes, the pilot decided to divert to Porto Alegre (SBPA).
While en route to Porto Alegre, the aircraft entered clouds, resulting in instrument flight conditions. The pilot, who was not rated for IFR (Instrument Flight Rules) operations, began a descent to find visual references. During this descent, the aircraft entered a layer of clouds and encountered terrain. The pilot reported experiencing spatial disorientation, but the investigation suggests the aircraft was in a normal attitude until it struck the treetops at a high angle of attack. The impact caused serious injuries to the pilot and resulted in the aircraft being a total loss.
The investigation
CENIPA investigators examined the flight's meteorological context, the pilot's qualifications, and the aircraft's maintenance records. The investigation established that while the pilot was experienced in VFR (Visual Flight Rules) operations, he lacked the necessary certification to fly in instrument conditions.
Meteorological analysis revealed that although there were no severe storms, significant cloud layers and low ceilings were present across the Serra Geral region. Investigators also reviewed the pilot's decision-making process, noting that the pilot had access to weather information prior to departure but failed to adequately account for the risks of the deteriorating conditions in his flight planning.