What happened
On September 5, 2021, at approximately 15:20 UTC, an EDRA Super Petrel LS ultralight aircraft was observed flying at a low altitude over the Tarumã-Açu River near Manaus, Amazonas. Witnesses reported that the aircraft collided with the water's surface, causing it to become semi-submerged. The aircraft sustained substantial damage during the impact.
At the time of the accident, the aircraft was carrying one pilot and one passenger. While reports indicated the pilot may have sustained light injuries, the individual left the scene before authorities could arrive, making it impossible to identify the pilot or verify their licenses and qualifications. The origin, destination, and purpose of the flight remain unknown.
The investigation
CENIPA investigators found that the aircraft, registered as PU-ZUZ, had been stripped of its identification markings. The manufacturer's identification plate had been removed, and the registration markings had been erased from the airframe. Investigators were only able to identify the aircraft by examining residual shadows on the structure.
An analysis of the Brazilian Civil Aviation Integrated Information System (SACI) revealed that the aircraft was not airworthy. According to ANAC records, the aircraft had been suspended since September 201 post-2013 due to an expired Experimental Flight Authorization Certificate (CAVE). Additionally, the aircraft's aeronautical insurance was expired.
Efforts to contact the registered operator were unsuccessful, preventing the collection of further essential information. The investigation noted that the pilot's departure from the scene and the lack of required documentation meant the operation was conducted in violation of Brazilian aeronautical regulations, creating unsafe operating conditions.