What happened
On June 26, 2016, at approximately 19:40 UTC, a Neiva EMB-712, registration PT-NZD, was performing a local scenic flight departing from Aeródromo Governador José Richa (SBLO) in Londrina, Brazil. The aircraft was carrying a pilot and two passengers. During the landing phase, as the aircraft approached the aiming point, it veered to the right, overran the lateral edge of the runway, and collided with a drainage ditch. The impact resulted in substantial damage to the aircraft, though all three occupants escaped without injury.
The investigation
CENIPA investigators examined the aircraft's braking system and maintenance records. While the pilot reported that the right wheel locked upon touchdown, laboratory analysis of the brake components by the Department of Aerospace Science and Technology (DCTA) revealed specific mechanical issues. The investigation found that the right brake pads were excessively worn, measuring only 0.21 cm and 0.22 cm, which is below the manufacturer's minimum replacement limit of 0.25 cm. Additionally, a metal rivet used to secure the pad had come into contact with the brake disc, causing scoring on the disc surface.
Furthermore, the investigation noted that the aircraft's maintenance logs for the airframe, engine, and propeller were not up to date, as they lacked entries for the most recent services performed. Although the pilot was properly qualified and the weather conditions were favorable for VFR flight, the maintenance documentation was found to be deficient.
Findings
- The right brake pads were worn beyond the manufacturer's service limits.
- A metal rivet from the brake pad assembly caused grooves in the brake disc.
- Maintenance records for the airframe, engine, and propeller were not updated with recent service information.
- Excessive brake pad wear was a primary factor in the loss of directional control on the ground.