What happened
On March 13, 2016, at approximately 19:00 UTC, a Neiva EMB 201A aircraft, registration PT-GYD, was attempting to depart from an agricultural landing strip at Fazenda Ouro Verde in Cristalândia, Tocantels, Brazil. The aircraft was being operated by Foliar Aviação Agrícola Ltda. for the purpose of applying fertilizer.
During the takeoff roll, the pilot attempted to rotate once the aircraft reached 80 knots. While the aircraft briefly lifted approximately three meters above the ground, it failed to achieve sufficient lift to maintain a climb. The aircraft descended back to the surface and continued along the runway. The takeoff run ended when the left landing gear struck a mound of earth near a nearby canal, causing the aircraft to capsize. The pilot sustained serious injuries, and the aircraft suffered substantial damage.
The investigation
CENIPA's investigation revealed several critical regulatory and operational deviations. The aircraft was being operated using ethanol instead of the approved 100LL aviation gasoline, and it lacked the necessary Special Flight Authorization from ANAC or a Supplemental Type Certificate (STC) for this fuel conversion. Consequently, the aircraft was not in an airworthy condition.
Furthermore, investigators found that the aircraft's weight exceeded the manufacturer's maximum takeoff weight of 1,800kg. Physical inspections also identified unauthorized modifications to the airframe and the absence of mandatory informational placards. Additionally, while the pilot held valid agricultural and single-engine ratings, his medical certificate (CMA) was suspended at the time of the accident.
Findings
- The aircraft was operating above its maximum takeoff weight.
- The aircraft was being operated with unauthorized fuel (ethanol) without proper certification or airworthiness approval.
- The pilot was operating with a suspended medical certificate.
- The aircraft contained unapproved structural modifications and lacked required placards.
- The aircraft lost lift during the takeoff roll, leading to the impact with the terrain.