What happened
On May 7, 2021, at approximately 12:40 UTC, a Neiva EMB-201A agricultural aircraft, registration PT-UAX, was performing local spray operations over a corn plantation at Fazenda Córdoba, near Ponta Porã, Mato Grosso do Sul. The aircraft was engaged in its third flight of the day, operated by Dimensão Aviação Agrícola Ltda.
During a reversal turn intended to reposition the aircraft for the next spray pass, the pilot encountered a downdraft that led to a loss of control. The aircraft entered a stall from which recovery was not possible due to insufficient altitude. The aircraft subsequently struck a eucalyptus plantation, resulting in substantial damage to the airframe. The pilot was able to exit the aircraft uninjured.
The investigation
CENIPA's investigation confirmed that the pilot was qualified, holding a valid commercial pilot license and a valid medical certificate. Although the pilot's agricultural rating (PAGA) had technically expired, it was within the 30-day extension period permitted by Brazilian civil aviation regulations (RBAC 61). The aircraft was airworthy, with a valid Certificate of Airworthiness, and was operating within its weight and balance limits.
Analysis of the aircraft's Differential Global Positioning System (DGPS) revealed that the aircraft had frequently operated at critical speeds near the stall threshold. Investigators noted that while the pilot reported a downdraft as the trigger, the aircraft's flight parameters were highly sensitive to changes in bank angle, load factor, or flap configuration.
Findings
- The aircraft experienced a loss of lift during a reversal maneuver.
- The pilot's decision-making and attitude contributed to the accident, as the aircraft was operated at the edge of its safe flight envelope.
- There was evidence of an overconfidence in handling the aircraft's limits and a failure to observe safe operational parameters.
- The investigation noted a common industry culture where pilots operate at minimum speeds to minimize flight time, though no specific pressure from the operator was identified in this instance.