What happened
On May 13, 2021, an experimental RV-9 A, registration PU-VVB, departed from Aeródromo Fazenda Pato Branco (SDLH) in São Gabriel do Oeste, MS, bound for Passo Fundo, RS. The flight was a private operation carrying a pilot and one passenger.
Radar data tracked the aircraft's progress toward the Campo Grande Terminal Control Area (TMA). After approximately 20 minutes of flight, the aircraft began a series of altitude changes, suggesting the pilot was attempting to maneuver around weather. At approximately 10:38 UTC, the aircraft began a return flight toward its origin. During this return leg, radar observations showed a sudden, extreme fluctuation in ground speed—increasing to 230 kt before dropping sharply to 36 kt—indicating the aircraft had entered a state of uncontrolled flight.
The aircraft struck a cornfield approximately 25 km from its departure point in a steep, inverted attitude (belly-first) at an estimated speed of 130 kt. The impact destroyed the aircraft, and both occupants sustained fatal injuries.
The investigation
CENIPA investigators examined the aircraft's maintenance records and found that while the airworthiness certificate was valid, the logbooks for the airframe, engine, and propeller were incomplete and outdated. There was no established maintenance program or flight manual available to verify weight and balance limitations.
Meteorological analysis revealed that the region was experiencing low-level cloud cover (Stratus and Stratocumulus) with bases between 600 and 1,300 ft, which significantly restricted visibility. Investigators also noted that the pilot's flight plan was not activated or authorized and had expired. The investigation ruled out engine failure, as the engine was still producing power at the moment of impact.
Findings
- Adverse weather conditions prevented the continuation of flight under Visual Meteorological Conditions (VMC).
- The pilot entered Instrument Meteorological Conditions (IMC) without the required instrument rating or experience.
- Inadequate flight planning and poor pilot judgment led to an operational environment that exceeded the pilot's capabilities.
- The pilot's lack of experience in IMC contributed to spatial disorientation and the subsequent loss of control.