What happened
On August 8, 2020, at approximately 13:20 UTC, an Embraer EMB-720D, registration PT-VIF, departed from the Gurupi Aerodrome (SWGI) in Tocantins, Brazil, bound for Palmas. The aircraft was operating a private flight with a pilot in command and two passengers on board.
Shortly after takeoff, the aircraft experienced a loss of engine power. Due to the low altitude and the presence of tall vegetation directly ahead, the pilot executed a 9/0-degree right turn and performed a forced landing in an area of low vegetation. Upon touchdown, the aircraft struck a small contour line, causing the separation of all three landing gear legs and resulting in substantial damage to the fuselage and wings. All three occupants emerged from the wreckage uninjured.
The investigation
The CENIPA investigation confirmed that the pilot held a valid medical certificate and single-engine land rating, with sufficient recent experience for the flight. The aircraft was airworthy, within weight and balance limits, and all maintenance records were up to date. Meteorological conditions were favorable for flight.
Investigators examined the fuel, which was found to be within specifications, and conducted a functional test of the Lycoming IO-540-K1G5 engine on a test bench. The engine performed normally across various RPM ranges, and no technical discrepancies were found in the fuel, ignition, or lubrication systems.
Crucially, investigators observed that the fuel mixture lever was positioned near the "lean" setting rather than the "rich" setting required for takeoff. This position was inconsistent with both standard takeoff procedures and the emergency checklists for engine failure or landing without power.
Findings
- The engine power loss was likely caused by the incorrect positioning of the fuel mixture lever near the lean setting, which may have occurred due to an oversight during takeoff or an error in handling the lever.
- The pilot's perception contributed to the accident, as there was a lack of clear understanding regarding the cause of the power loss and a failure to properly execute memory items or checklists to attempt to restore power.