What happened
On December 29, 2010, an EMB-202 aircraft, registration PT-UHF, was performing agricultural spraying operations near Alegrete, Rio Grande do Sul. After applying urea to a field, the pilot initiated a left-hand turn to reposition for a final pass. During this maneuver, the aircraft began to lose altitude and energy.
In an attempt to maintain lift, the pilot applied into the wind and eventually jettisoned the remaining chemical load. However, the aircraft continued to descend. The pilot applied power to the engine, but the aircraft was already in an unrecoverable state. The pilot executed an emergency landing on a sandbank along the banks of the Ibicuí River. During the landing roll, the aircraft traveled approximately 45 meters before capsizing. The pilot sustained minor injuries, while the aircraft suffered severe damage to the wings, fuselage, propeller, engine, and landing gear.
The investigation
CENIPA investigators examined the engine and ignition systems, including the magnetos, spark plugs, and wiring. The inspection revealed no abnormalities in the fuel or ignition systems, and the engine was found to be in normal working condition with no evidence of internal damage or lubrication failure.
The investigation also reviewed the pilot's experience and the operator's management practices. At the time of the accident, the pilot had approximately 80 flight hours in this specific aircraft type and had been with the company, Cristal Aviação Agrícola Ltda., for less than two months. Investigators also looked into the company's safety culture and management oversight regarding pilot training and operational planning.