What happened
On April 12, 2018, an Embraer EMB-810D, registration PT-VOP, was performing a private passenger flight from Palmas to Araguaína, Tocantins. The flight, operated by ITA Empresa de Transportes Ltda., carried a pilot and three passengers.
During the flight, meteorological conditions deteriorated, making it difficult to maintain visual flight rules (VFR) at the planned altitude. The pilot reported experiencing geographic disorientation and encountered difficulties interpreting information from the aircraft's GPS, which he attributed to equipment malfunction. To maintain visual contact with the ground, the pilot descended into a mountainous region, which further complicated his ability to identify his position.
As a precautionary measure, the pilot decided to land in an unplanned area in the municipality of Recursolândia. Although the initial touchdown was controlled, the aircraft veered to the left during the landing roll. The aircraft exited the chosen landing area, striking vegetation and a barbed-wire fence. The wire became entangled in the engines behind the spinners, and the left wing collided with a tree, causing substantial damage to the aircraft. All four occupants were unharmed.
The investigation
CENIPA's investigation confirmed that the pilot held valid medical and instrument ratings (IFRA) and was experienced in the aircraft type. The Embraer EMB-810D was airworthy, within weight and balance limits, and had up-to-date maintenance records.
The investigation established that while the pilot was instrument-rated, the company's organizational culture restricted him to flying only under VFR conditions. This practice resulted in limited familiarity with operating in deteriorating weather. Furthermore, the investigation noted that the difficulty in using the GPS precipitated the decision to land in an unplanned location where the terrain and obstacles contributed to the loss of directional control during the landing roll.
Findings
- Adverse meteorological conditions contributed to the loss of visual references.
- Pilot judgment contributed to the decision-making process during the emergency.
- The aircraft's inability to be used effectively for navigation due to GPS difficulties led to the unplanned landing.
- Organizational culture regarding flight restrictions limited the pilot's experience in instrument conditions.