What happened
On June 17, 2022, at approximately 12:00 UTC, a Super Petrel aircraft, registration PU-OSB, was conducting a private flight from Belém to Tracuateua, Pará. During the cruise phase at FL055, the pilot experienced a sudden loss of engine power accompanied by a drop in oil pressure.
Following the engine failure, the pilot notified Air Traffic Services (ATS) of the emergency and prepared for an unplanned landing on a highway near Igarapé-Açu. While executing the emergency landing, the aircraft's right wing struck a roadside sign immediately after touchdown. This impact caused the pilot to lose directional control, resulting in a full spin and substantial damage to the aircraft's structure. Both the pilot and the passenger survived the incident without injuries.
The investigation
CENIPA investigators examined the engine and the aircraft's maintenance history. The investigation found that the pilot was properly qualified and the aircraft held a valid Airworthiness Verification Certificate. However, investigators could not review the engine, propeller, or airframe logbooks, as these documents were reportedly stolen following the accident. Additionally, the aircraft's Experimental Flight Authorization Certificate (CAVE) was not presented for inspection.
Upon inspecting the Rotax 912ULS engine, investigators discovered that the internal components had seized, preventing the crankshaft from rotating. Analysis of the lubricant revealed that the oil level was critically low—approximately 0.5 liters remained, far below the manufacturer's required 3.0 liters. The drained oil was found to be excessively dark, dirty, and had lost its viscosity, containing visible metal fragments.
Findings
- The engine suffered internal seizure due to increased friction and component failure.
- The engine's lubrication system was compromised by an insufficient oil level and degraded lubricant quality.
- The presence of metal fragments in the oil indicated significant internal wear or breakage.
- The aircraft'osts directional control due to the wing strike with a roadside sign during the landing roll.
- Maintenance records for the engine, propeller, and airframe were unavailable for review.