What happened
On May 21, 2018, a Patriot ultralight aircraft, registration PU-DFK, was conducting a private flight from Goiânia, Goiás, toward Ituverava, Goiás. Approximately one hour and twenty minutes into the flight, the pilot experienced an engine failure. In response to the emergency, the pilot identified an unregistered airstrip in Água Limpa, Goiás, to perform an emergency landing.
During the approach, the pilot executed a left-hand traffic pattern, but the final approach was flown above the planned altitude. The aircraft touched the ground three times on the runway. The third touchdown occurred approximately 114 meters beyond the end of the runway, causing the aircraft to slide off the strip and come to rest inside a nearby lagoon. The aircraft sustained substantial damage, but the pilot remained uninjured.
The investigation
CENIPA investigators examined the aircraft's engine, a Rotax 912S UL, and conducted operational tests. The inspection found that all fuel connections were unobstructed, carburetor floats were functioning correctly, and cylinder compressions were within manufacturer specifications. The engine started and operated normally during testing, with no discrepancies found in the accessories or components that could have caused the in-flight failure.
The investigation also reviewed the aircraft's documentation and the pilot's records. Investigators found that the maintenance documentation was incomplete, specifically lacking the Annual Maintenance Inspection (IAM) records. Furthermore, the aircraft's logbook contained incomplete flight entries, with discrepancies in recorded locations and missing data regarding fuel and engine hours. While the pilot held a valid medical certificate and advanced ultralight rating, investigators noted a discrepancy in fuel levels; approximately 40 liters remained on board, which was significantly less than the expected amount based on the flight duration, suggesting a possible leak or inefficient fuel management.
Findings
- Inadequate pilot judgment and flight controls during the emergency procedure.
- The pilot's limited flight experience contributed to an improper assessment of operational parameters, including the approach altitude and runway alignment.
- Incomplete maintenance and flight logs prevented the verification of the aircraft's airworthiness and weight and balance status.