What happened
On April 26, 2015, a Cessna 2/10L, registration PR-LIT, was performing a private flight approaching the Ourilândia do Norte (SDOW) airport in Pará, Brazil. During the approach to landing, the aircraft's engine failed. The pilot attempted to restart the engine by switching fuel tanks, but the attempt was unsuccessful.
Unable to maintain flight, the pilot executed a forced landing on the PA-279 highway, which runs parallel to the airport runway, approximately 360 meters from the threshold of runway 13. Prior to reaching the ground, the aircraft struck high-voltage power lines located along the roadside. Following the impact, the pilot and one passenger were able to exit the aircraft without injury. With the assistance of local police, the aircraft was moved from the highway to a hangar at the Ourilândia do Norte aerodrome.
The investigation
The investigation established that the aircraft sustained substantial damage, specifically to the propeller, windshield, and horizontal stabilizer. While the aircraft's Certificate of Airworthiness was valid, the investigation uncovered significant regulatory violations. It was determined that the pilot did not possess the necessary license or rating to operate the aircraft, despite possessing an ANAC code.
Furthermore, the investigation was interrupted due to unauthorized actions regarding the aircraft's handling. After the occurrence, the aircraft was dismantled and moved from the hangar to an unknown location without the authorization of the investigating authority (SERIPA I).
Findings
- The primary cause of the accident was an engine failure during the approach to landing.
- The pilot was operating the aircraft without the required pilot license or aircraft rating.
- The aircraft struck high-voltage wires during the forced landing sequence.
- The aircraft sustained substantial damage to the propeller, windshield, and horizontal stabilizer.