What happened
On April 13, 2016, an Embraer EMB-810C, registration PT-EAE, was performing a private flight from Santo Antônio do Leverger, MT, to Aragarças, GO. While flying near Rondonópolis, MT, the pilot noticed signs of engine failure in the right engine, characterized by rising cylinder head temperatures and temperatures approaching the red arc.
As a precaution, the pilot performed a landing at an uncertified landing strip. During this stop, an unauthorized passenger with mechanical knowledge but no legal certification inspected the engine. The passenger identified a clogged fuel filter, which was cleaned on-site.
Following this maintenance, the pilot decided to take off again. However, less than five minutes into the second flight, the right engine again showed signs of malfunction. The pilot attempted a second precautionary landing at another uncertified strip. During the final approach, the right engine suffered a total failure. The aircraft drifted right of the runway and collided with a plantation, causing substantial damage to the left main landing gear, propeller, and left engine. The pilot and passenger sustained minor injuries.
The investigation
CENIPA examined the maintenance records of the aircraft and the sequence of events following the initial engine symptoms. The investigation focused on the decision-making process regarding the second takeoff and the legality of the maintenance performed on the ground.
Findings
- The aircraft's Annual Maintenance Inspection (IAM) was overdue.
- Both engines had expired components/items.
- The engine was serviced by unauthorized personnel during the first precautionary stop.
- The pilot elected to proceed with a second takeoff despite knowing the right engine was malfunctioning and that unauthorized maintenance had been performed.