What happened
On December 12, 2010, a Beechcraft C90A, registration PT-WUG, was performing an instrument approach (IFR RNAV/GPS) to runway 13 at Londrina Airport (SBLO). The flight had departed from Uberaba (SBUR) with two crew members and five passengers on board.
During the final approach, the crew reported encountering heavy turbulence approximately 5 nautical miles from the BOLO position. Shortly thereafter, the aircraft lost radio contact with air traffic control. The aircraft subsequently struck the ground in a soybean plantation in the Warta District, approximately 14km from the airport. The impact resulted in the total destruction of the aircraft. All seven occupants—two crew and five passengers—sust-suffered minor injuries.
The investigation
CENIPA's investigation focused on the meteorological conditions and the crew's operational performance. Investigators analyzed cockpit voice recorder (CVR) data, which confirmed that the crew had access to all necessary meteorological information prior to the approach. Meteorological reports (METAR) indicated a period of intense weather activity, including thunderstorms, heavy rain, and gusty winds caused by a moderate frontal system.
The investigation also examined the qualifications of the crew. While the pilot in command was fully qualified, the co-pilot was operating without the required type rating and instrument rating (IFRA) for the aircraft. Furthermore, the pilot in command was providing flight instruction to the co-pilot despite not holding a flight instructor rating (INVA).
Findings
- The aircraft likely encountered windshear associated with severe turbulence and heavy precipitation.
- The pilot in command exhibited excessive confidence and failed to follow standard emergency procedures.
- There was a significant breakdown in cockpit coordination; the co-pilot, lacking experience and recent type-specific training, failed to effectively intervene or manage the cabin environment.
- The pilot's decision-making was compromised by a desire to complete the landing and avoid the perceived professional embarrassment of declaring an emergency.
- The crew experienced a loss of situational awareness during the night IFR operation amidst deteriorating weather.
- The pilot in command was performing unauthorized flight instruction duties during the flight.