What happened
On February 10, 2005, an EMB-201 aircraft, registration PT-GGN, was performing agricultural spraying operations near São Vicente do Sul, Rio Grande do Sul. After completing its third spray pass, the pilot initiated a left-hand reversal maneuver to begin a new pass.
During the maneuver, the pilot realized the aircraft was flying at an insufficient altitude and airspeed to clear a small, wooded elevation ahead. In an attempt to regain altitude, the pilot performed a back-pressure maneuver on the controls, but was unable to gain the necessary height. The pilot then applied maximum engine power and initiated a right-hand turn to attempt a go-around. During this corrective maneuver, the left wing of the aircraft struck the top of a eucalyptus tree, causing the aircraft to lose control, yaw violently to the left, and impact the ground. The aircraft sustained heavy damage, while the pilot sustained minor injuries.
The investigation
CENIPA's investigation focused on the pilot's decision-making and the execution of the flight maneuvers. The investigation established that the pilot was highly experienced, with approximately 4,000 hours of agricultural flight time and a valid commercial pilot license. The aircraft was found to be within weight and balance limits, and its airworthiness certificate was valid.
Investigators noted that the pilot's failure to wear a helmet contributed to the aggravation of the head injuries sustained during the impact. The analysis also examined the pilot's judgment regarding the energy reserves required to clear the terrain obstacles and the timing of the corrective turn.