What happened
On April 26, 2019, an Embraer EMB-202 agricultural aircraft, registration PT-VCC, was performing crop dusting operations at Fazenda Elizabeth in Paragominas, Pará. The aircraft was engaged in applying foliar fertilizer at a low altitude, approximately 2.5 meters above the crop.
Following a completed spray pass, the pilot attempted to climb to clear an upcoming elevation and a 20-meter tall tree. During this climb, the pilot reported a sudden loss of lift and a gust of wind. Despite increasing engine power and jettisoning the hopper load to reduce weight, the aircraft continued to lose altitude, resulting in a substantial impact with the ground. The pilot survived the accident without injury.
The investigation
CENIPA investigators examined the aircraft's mechanical condition, the pilot's credentials, and the flight parameters. The investigation confirmed that the pilot was fully qualified with valid medical and agricultural ratings, and the aircraft was within its weight and balance limits. No mechanical failures or engine malfunctions were identified as contributing to the crash.
Investigators noted that while the aircraft's airworthiness certificate was valid, the maintenance logs for the engine, propeller, and airframe were not up to date. The investigation also analyzed the aerodynamic configuration, noting that the pilot had extended the flaps to 20 degrees during the climb. The investigation also considered the impact of a tailwind component and the pilot's flight maneuvers in relation to the terrain elevation.