What happened
On March 18, 2013, an Embraer EMB-201A Neiva, registration PT-UCN, was performing agricultural spraying operations near Rosário do Sul, Rio Grande do Sul. The aircraft, operated by Ibicuí Aviação Agrícola Ltda, departed from the Rosário do Sul Aerodrome to apply fungicide to a soybean crop.
During the flight, after completing the third spray pass, the aircraft experienced a loss of lift while executing a return maneuver over the field. In response to the loss of lift, the pilot attempted an emergency landing in an open, unpaved area. To facilitate a short landing, the pilot commanded full flap extension. The impact resulted in substantial damage to the aircraft, while the pilot sustained minor injuries.
The investigation
CENIPA's investigation focused on the mechanical and maintenance status of the aircraft. Investigators found that the aircraft's airframe and engine logbooks contained outdated entries. Specifically, the investigation identified that the installation of a particular magneto (model D6LN2230, P/N: 10-384602-307, S/N: R 4020 K) was not documented in the aircraft's records. Furthermore, there was no evidence of traceability for this component, such as a SEGVOO 003 report or equivalent certification.
Findings
- Inadequate aircraft maintenance
- Flight indiscipline
- Deficiencies in management supervision