Fatal low-altitude collision involving experimental RV-7A in Paraná

Casualties unknown • TOLEDO, PR, BR

A private flight involving an amateur-built RV-7A ended in a fatal crash after the aircraft struck tree branches and the ground during low-altitude maneuvers.

What happened

On April 21, 2020, an amateur-built RV-7A, registration PP-ZCA, was performing a private local flight departing from Fazenda Montesion Aerodrome in Toledo, Paraná. The aircraft was carrying the pilot and one passenger. During the flight, the aircraft was observed performing several maneuvers at a very low altitude over the aerodrome and the pilot's residence.

At approximately 20:21 UTC, the aircraft collided with tree branches and subsequently struck the ground. The impact caused the aircraft to skid approximately 45 meters before coming to a rest in an inverted position. The impact resulted in the destruction of the aircraft and the fatal injuries of both occupants.

The investigation

CENIPA's investigation focused on the circumstances leading to the loss of control. Investigators examined the aircraft's maintenance records, which were found to be out of date, with the airframe and engine logbooks not updated since 2011. Additionally, the aircraft's Flight Authorization Certificate (CAV) had expired in February 2020, and the propeller balance certificate had been expired since 2016.

While the engine was found to be in normal operating condition through technical analysis, the investigation noted that the aircraft's ownership transfer had not been formally updated in the Brazilian Aeronautical Registry. Meteorological data confirmed that weather conditions were suitable for VFR flight, and toxicological tests on the occupants were negative for alcohol or drugs.

Findings

  • The aircraft was flying at low altitude, in violation of established safety regulations.
  • The crew may have experienced a loss of control due to inadequate use of flight controls during maneuvers.
  • There was a possible error in piloting judgment regarding the decision to perform maneuvers or aerobatics at such a low altitude.
  • The pilot may have failed to perceive the approaching tree branches due to lighting conditions or the aircraft's angle of attack.
  • The aircraft was operating with an expired Flight Authorization Certificate (CAV).

Probable cause

The accident was likely caused by the pilot performing maneuvers at an unsafe low altitude, leading to a loss of control or an inability to perceive obstacles, compounded by non-compliance with regulatory altitude requirements.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 2020-04-21 aircraft accident near TOLEDO, PR, BR?

A private flight involving an amateur-built RV-7A ended in a fatal crash after the aircraft struck tree branches and the ground during low-altitude maneuvers.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 2020-04-21 involved a aircraft, registration PPZCA, at TOLEDO, PR, BR.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The accident was likely caused by the pilot performing maneuvers at an unsafe low altitude, leading to a loss of control or an inability to perceive obstacles, compounded by non-compliance with regulatory altitude requirements.

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