What happened
On April 3, 2018, a Neiva EMB-202 agricultural aircraft, registration PT-UMY, was performing a ferry flight between two landing strips in Santana do Araguaia, Pará. Due to degraded meteorological conditions caused by fog, the pilot diverted the landing to the Agropecuária São Roberto airfield.
While executing a left base turn for the approach, the aircraft experienced an excessive loss of altitude, descending dangerously close to the ground. The pilot attempted a go-around; however, the aircraft struck a fence along a roadside, causing damage to the fuselage, landing gear, and the spreader device. The aircraft then struck a second fence, which resulted in substantial damage to the engine, wings, aileron, and left flap, and caused the propeller blade to bend. The aircraft finally came to rest in a soybean plantation.
The investigation
CENIPA investigators confirmed that the pilot held valid medical and flight certifications and was experienced in this type of operation. The aircraft was airworthy, with all maintenance records up to date, and was within weight and balance limits at the time of the accident.
Technical analysis of the engine and systems revealed no mechanical failures or malfunctions. The investigation focused on the flight maneuvers and the pilot's response to the altitude loss. Investigators determined that the pilot's decision to use full flaps (30 degrees) during the go-around, rather than the 8-degree setting prescribed by the aircraft's Operations Manual, significantly increased induced drag. This drag prevented the aircraft from successfully climbing and recovering from the descent.
Findings
- Improper use of flaps: The pilot deployed full flaps during the go-around, creating excessive drag that compromised the climb.
- Pilot judgment and perception: A lapse in attention and a failure to properly monitor power, airspeed, and pitch during the base turn led to the initial loss of altitude.
- Decision-making errors: The pilot's reaction to the critical flight condition was delayed and involved incorrect procedural execution.
- Environmental factors: The presence of another agricultural aircraft operating at the same airfield may have distracted the pilot's attention during the critical phase of flight.