What happened
On May 21, 2023, at approximately 12:15 UTC, an experimental RV-7A, registration PT-ZUM, was performing a private flight from Pato Branco (SBPO) to Campo Largo (SSCF) in Paraná, Brazil. During the final approach to the destination, the aircraft encountered Instrument Meteorological Conditions (IMC). While flying in these conditions, the aircraft struck trees and subsequently impacted the ground approximately 3 nautical miles from the airfield. The aircraft sustained substantial damage, but the pilot emerged from the wreckage uninjured.
The investigation
CENIPA investigators examined the meteorological conditions, the pilot's qualifications, and the aircraft's airworthiness. Analysis of METAR, SPECI, and TAF reports from nearby aerodromes, including Afonso Pena (SBCT) and Bacacheri (SBBI), confirmed that the area was experiencing fog and mist. At the time of the accident, the cloud ceiling was between 100 and 200 feet, with horizontal visibility ranging from 250 to 5,000 meters. These conditions were below the minimum requirements for Visual Flight Rules (VFR) flight, which requires a 1,000-foot ceiling and 5,000 meters of visibility.
Regarding the pilot, while the medical certificate was valid, the pilot held a single-engine land rating but lacked the necessary Instrument Rating (IFRA). The investigation also noted that the aircraft was not equipped with weather radar and was not certified for IFR operations. The aircraft's engine was producing power at the time of the impacts, and the aircraft was within weight and balance limits.
Findings
- The pilot encountered IMC during the final approach while operating under VFR flight rules.
- Meteorological conditions (fog and mist) were below the legal minimums for VFR flight.
- The pilot's decision-making and flight planning were flawed, as the pilot had noted the unfavorable weather forecasts but proceeded with the flight, believing the conditions could be avoided.
- There were failures in risk assessment regarding the aircraft's operational limits, as the aircraft was not certified for instrument flight and the pilot was not instrument-rated.
- Contributing factors included poor flight planning, inadequate decision-making, and adverse meteorological conditions.