What happened
On March 25, 2019, at approximately 08:30 UTC, an Air Tractor AT-502, registration PR-FKU, was attempting a takeoff from an agricultural landing strip at Fazenda São José, located in Nova Andimina, MS. The aircraft, operated by Nordica Aviação Agrícola Ltda, was configured for aerial spraying of sugarcane crops.
During the takeoff roll, the aircraft drifted to the right due to a crosswind. The pilot attempted to correct the deviation by applying left rudder and reducing power. However, following the correction, there was a delay in reapplying the necessary takeoff power as the pilot focused on monitoring engine parameters. As the aircraft reached the end of the available 900-meter runway, the pilot realized there was insufficient distance to abort the takeoff and attempted to rotate. The aircraft lifted off at a speed near its stall limit, climbed only about 2 meters, and struck a sugarcane plantation located just beyond the runway threshold, coming to a stop 70 meters past the opposite end of the strip. The pilot was uninjured, but the aircraft sustained substantial damage.
The investigation
CENIPA's investigation confirmed that the pilot was properly licensed and qualified for agricultural operations, with a valid medical certificate and significant flight experience. The aircraft was airworthy, with all maintenance inspections up to date, and was operating within its approved weight and balance limits. Meteorological conditions were favorable, with no precipitation reported.
The investigation focused on the takeoff performance and the pilot's management of the aircraft during the ground roll. Investigators analyzed the takeoff distance requirements for the AT-502 under the specific load conditions, noting that the aircraft was carrying approximately 2,900 kg, including 530 kg of agricultural chemicals.
Findings
- The pilot failed to follow the recommended takeoff procedure, which prescribes applying full power before releasing brakes when the hopper is loaded.
- Improper use of flight controls and a delay in applying power during the ground roll contributed to the loss of momentum.
- There was a failure in the pilot's decision-making process, specifically regarding the inability to recognize that the takeoff was no longer viable due to insufficient airspeed and remaining runway length.
- The aircraft rotated at a speed near the minimum control speed, leading to the collision with the obstacle.