What happened
On May 5, 2001, a Cessna U 206F, registration PT-JAR, was performing a flight from the São Félix do Xingu airfield to Fazenda Canopus. During the takeoff roll, the pilot rotated the aircraft after approximately 450 meters of ground run. Immediately after lifting off, the pilot initiated a left-hand turn. Due to insufficient airspeed and altitude, the aircraft lost lift, struck a tree, and collided with a perimeter fence before coming to rest.
The accident resulted in two fatalities (the pilot and one passenger) and several injuries, including one passenger who suffered serious injuries and two others who sustained minor injuries. The aircraft sustained severe damage and was declared a total loss.
The investigation
CENIPA's investigation revealed that the aircraft was operating significantly outside of its safe flight envelope. The total weight at takeoff was 3,679.7 lbs, exceeding the manufacturer's maximum takeoff weight of 3,500 lbs. Furthermore, the center of gravity (CG) was located beyond the aft limit because the 524.7 lb cargo was placed in the rear of the cabin without being secured.
Investigators also noted that the pilot's medical certificate and technical ratings (including instrument flight proficiency) were expired. The aircraft's airworthiness certificate was also suspended, and a temporary repair made with adhesive tape was present on the leading edge of the left wing. The investigation found that the high ambient temperature of 40°C (104°F) significantly increased the required takeoff distance, which the pilot failed to account for when rotating early on the runway.
Findings
- Overweight and Unbalanced Loading: The aircraft exceeded maximum takeoff weight and was operating with an aft CG, which created a tendency for the nose to pitch up.
- Loss of Control: The pilot's decision to execute a high-performance turn immediately after rotation, while the aircraft was heavy and slow, induced a stall.
- Pilot Attitude and Decision Making: The pilot exhibited a pattern of "exhibitionist" takeoffs and demonstrated a disregard for operational procedures, including flying with expired licenses and ignoring weight limits.
- Management Oversight: The aircraft owner allowed the operation of the aircraft despite the suspended airworthiness certificate and the pilot's lack of valid qualifications.
Safety action
Following the investigation, CENIPA issued several recommendations, including calls for intensified inspections at the São Félix do Xingu airfield to prevent the operation of undocumented aircraft and pilots. Additionally, recommendations were made to the aircraft owner regarding the necessity of constant supervision of their operations.