What happened
On May 15, 2020, at approximately 21:3/UTC, an EMB 810C, registration PT-RMN, crashed near São Benedito, Ceará. The aircraft, operated by Top Line Taxi Aéreo Ltda., had departed from Sobral (SNOB) for Teresina (SBTE) as part of an aeromedical mission. The flight was planned under Visual Flight Rules (VFR) and carried one pilot and three passengers. Approximately twenty minutes after takeoff, the aircraft struck the ground at Fazenda Marambaia, resulting in the total destruction of the plane and four fatalities (the pilot and all three passengers).
The investigation
CENIPA's investigation examined the pilot's qualifications, the aircraft's maintenance status, and the environmental conditions at the time of the accident. While the pilot held valid medical and multi-engine instrument ratings, investigators found that the pilot did not meet the recent experience requirements established by RBAC 135. The investigation also looked into the psychological and organizational context, noting that the operation took place during the COVID-19 pandemic. The pilot reportedly experienced stress related to the risk of infection, the use of personal protective equipment (PPE), and flight delays. Meteorological data indicated that visibility restrictions during the night may have limited the ability to maintain VFR conditions.
Findings
- The pilot lacked the required recent experience as mandated by RBAC 135 regulations.
- Adverse meteorological conditions and nighttime visibility restrictions likely contributed to spatial disorientation.
- The pilot's emotional state may have been negatively impacted by stressors including COVID-19 safety concerns, flight delays, and the challenges of night flight.
- The aircraft was within weight and balance limits and had a valid airworthiness certificate.