What happened
On April 3, 2013, at approximately 18:30 UTC, a Cessna T210L, registration PR-LYD, was performing engine checks at the Formosa (SWFR) aerodrome. The crew, consisting of a pilot and a mechanic, were accompanied by two passengers. Following a successful engine check, the pilot decided to perform a takeoff run on runway 23, intending to abort the takeoff before reaching 85 knots. However, upon reaching 85 knots, the pilot rotated the aircraft and proceeded with the takeoff.
After the landing gear and flaps were retracted, the aircraft reached an altitude of approximately 900 feet when the engine failed. The pilot was forced to execute an emergency landing in a plowed field located about 1.3 nautical miles from the aerodrome, near kilometer 57 of the BR-020 highway. The aircraft sustained severe damage, but all four occupants escaped the crash uninjured.
The investigation
The investigation by CENIPA revealed significant regulatory non-compliance regarding the aircraft's airworthiness and the pilot's credentials. The aircraft's Certificate of Airworthiness had been canceled following a previous accident on March 31, 2012. At the time of the occurrence, the aircraft had not completed the necessary repairs from that prior accident, nor had it undergone its required Annual Maintenance Inspection (IAM).
Furthermore, the investigation established that the pilot was operating with an expired Technical Pilot Certificate (CHT), which had lapsed in November 2012. Additionally, the aircraft was not equipped with an emergency checklist on board. Due to the aircraft's unairworthy status and the lack of completed maintenance, investigators were unable to determine the specific mechanical cause of the engine failure.
Findings
- The engine failure in flight was the primary event leading to the forced landing.
- The aircraft was being operated in violation of Brazilian Civil Aviation Regulations, as it was not in an airworthy condition.
- The pilot's technical qualification (CHT) was expired.
- The aircraft had not completed repairs from a previous accident or its annual maintenance inspection.
- An emergency checklist was missing from the aircraft.