Fatal Collision with Tree During Landing Approach in Cassilândia

Casualties unknown • CASSILÂNDIA, MS, BR

A Cessna 172N crashed into a tree during a recreational flight in Brazil, resulting in two fatalities and substantial aircraft damage.

What happened

On April 14, 2017, a Cessna 172N, registration PR-LPW, was conducting a local recreational flight near the Cassilândia Aerodrome in Mato Grosso do Sul, Brazil. The flight, which included the pilot and one passenger, initially involved a flight over the local city. Following an initial flight, the occupants took off again for a second leg of the local flight.

During the second leg, the aircraft was observed returning to the aerodrome, appearing to be on final approach for runway 13. During this approach, the aircraft collided with a tree located approximately 400 meters from the runway threshold. The impact was severe, causing the engine to detach from the airframe and resulting in the destruction of the cabin and instrument panel. The two fatalities occurred as a result of the crash.

The investigation

CENIPA investigators examined the wreckage and the engine components to determine if mechanical failure played a role in the accident. While the engine showed significant impact damage, including a fracture in the propeller coupling flange characteristic of an overload, no internal mechanical malfunctions were found in the oil pump, filters, or valve controls.

However, investigators noted lead deposits in cylinders 1 and 3, which suggested the engine had been operating with a poor fuel mixture and elevated cylinder temperatures. The investigation also considered the possibility of carburetor icing, noting that such ice can form even in relatively mild temperatures. The investigators evaluated the pilot's experience and the aircraft's airworthiness, finding all certificates and maintenance records to be valid and up to date.

Findings

  • The aircraft was within weight and balance limits and was fully airworthy.
  • The weather conditions at the time of the accident were favorable for flight.
  • The engine showed evidence of operating with a lean/poor fuel mixture.
  • The possible failure to use the carburetor heat system or a lack of knowledge regarding its importance may have led to partial obstruction by ice, affecting engine performance during the approach.
  • The impact with the tree was the immediate cause of the structural failure and the fatalities.

Probable cause

The accident was likely caused by engine performance degradation due to potential carburetor icing, compounded by the possible failure of the pilot to apply carburetor heat during the landing approach.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 2017-04-14 aircraft accident near CASSILÂNDIA, MS, BR?

A Cessna 172N crashed into a tree during a recreational flight in Brazil, resulting in two fatalities and substantial aircraft damage.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 2017-04-14 involved a aircraft, registration PRLPW, at CASSILÂNDIA, MS, BR.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The accident was likely caused by engine performance degradation due to potential carburetor icing, compounded by the possible failure of the pilot to apply carburetor heat during the landing approach.

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