What happened
On May 8, 2021, a Neiva EMB-720D (registration PT-VNB) was performing a private passenger transport flight from Goiânia to São Miguel do Araguaia, Brazil. The aircraft was carrying a pilot and three passengers. Approximately 45 minutes into the flight, a passenger reported abdominal pain; however, the flight continued. About one hour and 15 minutes after takeoff, the same passenger's condition worsened, prompting an urgent request for an immediate landing.
The pilot elected to land in an unregistered area near the outskirts of Mundo Novo, Goiás. During the landing roll, the aircraft's right main landing gear struck a termite mound. The impact caused the landing gear to collapse and detach from the airframe, also damaging the right elevator. Despite the substantial damage to the aircraft, all four occupants emerged uninjured.
The investigation
CENIPA's investigation focused on the pilot's decision-making and the suitability of the landing site. The investigation confirmed that the pilot held valid medical and flight certifications and that the aircraft was airworthy, with all maintenance records up to date. The aircraft was operating within its weight and balance limits, and meteorological conditions were favorable for flight.
Investigators noted that while the pilot had the authority to deviate from regulations during an emergency, the decision to land in an unregistered field was made despite the presence of at least three registered airstrips within a 20 NM radius of the accident site. The investigation also examined the pilot's reliance on the passenger's subjective report of physical distress, which influenced the flight's progression.
Findings
- Pilot decision-making: The pilot's decision-making process was a contributing factor, as the urgency of the passenger's medical distress may have prevented a thorough evaluation of alternative landing sites.
- Judgment: The pilot's judgment regarding the selection of an unregistered landing site contributed to the occurrence.
- Emergency management: The pilot's decision was heavily influenced by the stress of the passenger's physiological symptoms.