What happened
On November 14, 2002, an EMB-201 A aircraft, registration PT-GSX, was performing a solo training flight simulating agricultural spraying operations. The flight involved water-dropping maneuvers near Roxo Roiz, Paraná. During the mission, the pilot lost control of the aircraft, which subsequently collided with the ground.
Following the flight, the aircraft failed to return to its base in Ponta Grossa as scheduled. After initial attempts to reach the pilot via VHF radio were unsuccessful, contact was established via cellular phone, at which point the pilot confirmed the accident and reported being near the wreckage. A search aircraft was dispatched and located the pilot, who had sustained minor injuries.
The investigation
CENIPA's investigation focused on determining the cause of the loss of control. The pilot experienced amnesia regarding the specific moments of the impact, which limited the ability to establish a definitive sequence of events. However, the investigation examined the aircraft's maintenance records, the pilot's experience, and the environmental conditions at the time of the accident.
Investigators analyzed two primary possibilities: a loss of control during a reversal maneuver (known as a 'balão') or a failure to maintain safe flight altitude. The investigation also considered the possibility of visual illusions or sun glare, as the accident occurred in the morning when the sun was at a low angle. Additionally, the lack of an instructor present during the solo training session was noted as a factor that prevented real-time correction of maneuvers.
Findings
- The pilot was highly experienced and held a valid commercial pilot license.
- The aircraft was within weight and balance limits and had a valid airworthiness certificate.
- Excessive confidence in the aircraft and the pilot's own skills may have led to the execution of risky maneuvers.
- The pilot may have applied improper control inputs during a reversal maneuver, causing a loss of lift.
- Potential visual illusions or sun glare during the maneuver could have contributed to the loss of control.
- The absence of an instructor during the training session meant there was no oversight to prevent or correct unsafe flight maneuvers.