What happened
On August 11, 2001, an EMB-721C operated by Tocantins Táxi-Aéreo was performing a passenger transport flight from the Cel. Alexandre Raposo Aerodrome in Paço do Lumiar, Maranhão, to Barreirinheus, Maranhão.
During the takeoff roll from runway 09, the aircraft experienced an engine failure at approximately 50 feet of altitude, before the landing gear could be retracted. The pilot attempted to return to the ground, maintaining the landing gear in the extended position and applying maximum braking. The aircraft touched down 167 meters from the end of runway 27. Due to the momentum, the aircraft traveled across a 28-meter gravel area and entered a steep embankment, striking small trees and shrubs.
The aircraft sustained severe damage. The pilot and one passenger sustained minor injuries, while the third occupant remained uninjured.
The investigation
CENIPA's investigation focused on the engine failure and the pilot's decision-making during the emergency. Investigators examined the aircraft's maintenance records, noting that while the engine and propeller logs were up to date, the airframe logs were not. The aircraft was within its weight and center of gravity limits at the time of the accident.
Technical analysis of the engine components by the CTA found that the parts were in accordance with manufacturer specifications and were in normal working condition; consequently, the specific cause of the engine failure could not be determined. The investigation also reviewed the aerodrome infrastructure, noting the presence of non-frangible curbs and the lack of an emergency response plan (PEAA) or communication capabilities at the airfield.
Findings
- The pilot's decision to attempt a landing with the gear extended was a contributing factor, as the aircraft's emergency manual suggested retracting the gear to clear obstacles if the terrain ahead was rugged.
- The pilot's limited experience in this specific aircraft type (only 35 hours) likely hindered the ability to execute the most effective emergency procedures.
- The aerodrome infrastructure contributed to the severity of the accident, as the runway lacked a proper overrun area and featured a steep embankment and non-frangible curbs.
- The lack of communication between the pilot and the aerodrome administration delayed the arrival of external assistance.
- The passenger in the rear seat sustained finger fractures because they were not secured with a seatbelt.