What happened
On March 10, 2014, at approximately 19:25 UTC, an Embraer EMB-810C, registration PT-EVN, departed from Manuel Urbano, AC, en route to Santa Rosa dos Purus, AC. The flight was being operated for private purposes with the pilot on board.
Upon arrival at the Santa Rosa dos Purus airfield, the aircraft performed a landing with the landing gear in the retracted position. The impact caused both propellers to strike the ground, resulting in the deformation of the lower fuselage and the wings. The pilot was uninjured during the event.
The investigation
The investigation conducted by CENIPA examined the mechanical state of the aircraft and the pilot's procedures. Investigators found that the landing gear extension system was fully functional and showed no mechanical abnormalities. The aircraft's airworthiness certificate was valid, and all maintenance records for the airframe, engine, and propellers were up to date. Additionally, the aircraft was within the manufacturer's weight and balance limits, and the pilot held valid medical and technical certifications.
Findings
- The pilot failed to command the landing gear to the down position prior to touchdown.
- The pilot did not utilize a checklist during the approach to the airfield.
- Pilot error due to oversight was the primary factor in the landing gear omission.