What happened
On January 5, 2009, an Agusta A-109C helicopter, registration PT-YFP, was performing a flight from Parati, RJ, to a private landing site at Fazenda Barreiro in Itupeva, SP. The flight initially proceeded under instrument flight rules (IFR), but the pilot transitioned to visual flight rules (VFR) near Campinas, SP, to approach the destination.
During the final approach to the landing site, the aircraft experienced a simultaneous failure of both engines. The pilot attempted an emergency landing at the farm, but the aircraft struck the ground with significant force. The impact was followed by a post-crash fire that completely consumed the helicopter. The accident resulted in one fatality (a passenger who succumbed to fire) and several injuries, including one pilot with serious injuries and three passengers with serious injuries, alongside one passenger with minor injuries.
The investigation
CENIPA's investigation focused on the mechanical failure of the engines and the circumstances of the impact. Investigators examined the aircraft's maintenance history, noting that while the airframe and engine logs were destroyed in the fire, available records indicated the helicopter had approximately 2,834 hours of total flight time. The investigation also looked into the engine components, specifically the Power Turbine Shaft to Pinion Gear Coupling.
Technical analysis by the Aerodynamics Division (ALA) determined that the aircraft struck the ground with a load factor of 14G. The investigation also noted that the landing area was not a certified helipad, though it was frequently used by the operator for landings.
Findings
- The primary cause of the accident was a dual engine failure during the final approach phase.
- A mechanical failure occurred within the engine's power turbine shaft to pinion gear coupling.
- The aircraft was operating at a non-certified landing site.
- Maintenance records for pre-flight and post-flight inspections were not being performed in accordance with the manufacturer's maintenance manual.