What happened
On March 26, 2010, a Cessna C-210H, registration PT-AKS, departed from the Anápolis Aerodrome (SWNS) bound for Luziânia (SWLZ) under Visual Flight Rules (VFR). The flight, carrying a pilot and one passenger, experienced a sudden loss of engine power approximately 300 feet after takeoff.
In an attempt to manage the emergency, the pilot executed a left turn to reach a flat area between the runway and the hangars. Due to insufficient altitude, the pilot opted for an emergency landing in a vegetated area near the hangars. Upon touchdown, the nose gear broke, causing the aircraft to slide across the terrain. The aircraft subsequently struck an embankment, leading to a nose-over (pilonagem) that caused severe damage to the airframe, propeller, engine, wings, and landing gear. The pilot and passenger sustained minor injuries.
The investigation
CENIPA investigators examined the aircraft's maintenance history and fuel system. Laboratory analysis of fuel samples taken from the fuel distributor valve revealed that the sample was composed of 93% free water. The investigation noted that the aircraft had been parked outdoors during heavy thunderstorms the previous day.
Investigators also reviewed the pilot's training and operational procedures. It was noted that the pilot had experienced two engine stalls at idle power during the previous day's operations but had not requested a maintenance inspection. Furthermore, the investigation looked into the configuration of the cabin, noting the passenger was seated on the floor without a seatbelt.