What happened
On June 12, 2020, an Embraer EMB-201A agricultural aircraft, registration PT-UGO, was performing crop dusting operations over a cotton plantation at Fazenda Tabuleiro V, near Correntina, Bahia. The flight was part of an aerial application mission for Aero Agrícola Cambará Ltda.
After completing an initial spray pass, the pilot performed a reversal maneuver (known locally as a "balão") to prepare for a second pass. During the descent following this maneuver, the aircraft struck an electrical power line and subsequently impacted the ground. The aircraft sustained substantial damage, but the pilot emerged from the crash uninjured.
The investigation
CENIPA's investigation established that the pilot was fully qualified, holding valid commercial and agricultural licenses, as well as a valid medical certificate. The aircraft was also in compliance with airworthiness standards, with all maintenance logs up to date and the aircraft operating within weight and balance limits.
The investigation focused on the pilot's actions during the complex low-altitude maneuvering required for agricultural spraying. It was noted that while the pilot was familiar with the area, the flight path for the second pass was oriented toward the rising sun, which significantly impacted visibility. The investigation also examined the pilot's decision-making regarding the known presence of power lines in the application area.
Findings
- Sun glare caused significant visual impairment, as the pilot was flying directly into the rising sun.
- The pilot's attention was divided between maintaining the correct aircraft position for the spray pass and monitoring the environment.
- There was an inadequate assessment during the reversal maneuver, as the pilot failed to maneuver the aircraft sufficiently clear of the power lines.
- Flight planning was insufficient to mitigate the risks of known obstacles and the effects of solar glare.
- The high workload and complexity of low-altitude maneuvering contributed to a reduction in situational awareness.