What happened
On March 31, 2017, a Piper PA-42, registration PP-EPB, was operating a flight that originally departed from Flores Aerodrome (SWFN) in Manaus, Brazil, destined for Barra do Garças (SBBW). During the flight, the pilot changed the destination to Sorocaba Aerodrome (SDCO) in São Paulo to deliver the aircraft for a scheduled inspection.
During the approach to Sorocaba, the aircraft collided with trees and struck the ground approximately 1 km from the runway threshold. The impact destroyed the aircraft. The pilot and one passenger sustained fatal injuries.
The investigation
CENIPA investigators examined the wreckage and the aircraft's engines, which were Pratt & Whitney PT6A-41 models. While no engine malfunction was found prior to impact, post-crash analysis of the fuel pumps revealed evidence of cavitation in the gear bushings and discoloration of the gear teeth due to overheating. These findings are characteristic of fuel starvation.
The investigation also noted that while the aircraft was capable of pressurization, the pilot chose to fly at FL135. This lower altitude significantly increased fuel consumption compared to a higher flight level, such as FL250. Furthermore, the aircraft's maintenance logbooks were found to be outdated, with the last recorded inspection occurring several months prior.
Findings
- Fuel starvation was the primary cause of the engine power loss during approach.
- Inadequate flight planning regarding fuel calculations and cruise level selection.
- Poor piloting judgment regarding the impact of flight altitude on fuel consumption.
- Flight indiscipline due to failure to comply with minimum fuel requirements.
- Inadequate evaluation of flight parameters, including available fuel and distance to destination.