What happened
On April 17, 2022, a Cirrus SR22, registration PR-AUG, was performing a ferry flight from Araguaína, Tocantins, to Santa Fé do Araguaia, Tocantins. Approximately 15 minutes into the flight, the pilot experienced abnormal vibrations in the aircraft. Although engine instruments showed normal parameters, the pilot perceived a potential malfunction and decided to perform a precautionary landing on an unregistered asphalt runway located within the Reserva Escapole in Piçarra, Pará.
The runway, while paved, was wet due to recent rain and covered with loose stones. During the landing roll, the aircraft veered toward the left side of the runway, resulting in a runway excursion. The aircraft sustained substantial damage, including broken main and auxiliary landing gears and damage to the wings, fuselage, and propeller tips. The pilot was uninjured.
The investigation
CENIPA investigators examined the aircraft's maintenance records, meteorological data, and the physical wreckage. The investigation confirmed that the aircraft's airworthiness certificates and maintenance logs were up to date. While no engine power loss was recorded, investigators discovered a cracked shock-absorbing rubber in the engine mount, which likely caused the reported vibrations.
Regarding the excursion, investigators found that the inspection window for the right-hand brake was darkened, indicating the assembly had overheated. While the pilot reported a failure of the right-hand brake, investigators found no mechanical discrepancies in the braking system itself. The investigation considered that the brakes may have been applied in a manner that caused overheating, especially given the wet surface and loose stones on the runway.
Furthermore, meteorological analysis revealed that the weather conditions at the time of takeoff were below the minimum visibility and ceiling requirements for VFR flight. The presence of low cloud layers and rain likely contributed to the pilot's difficulty in maintaining terrain contact and limited the available emergency options.
Findings
- The pilot took off in weather conditions that were below the prescribed VFR minima.
- The aircraft experienced vibrations caused by a cracked engine mount shock absorber.
- The right-hand brake showed evidence of overheating, which may have led to the loss of directional control.
- The runway surface was wet and contained loose stones, increasing the required stopping distance.
- Inadequate flight planning and weather assessment limited the pilot's ability to manage the emergency.