What happened
On September 10, 2022, at approximately 13:00 UTC, a Robinson R44-II helicopter, registration PR-GCO, was involved in an accident at the José Boso Municipal Aerodrome (SDLP) in Lençóis Paulista, São Paulo. The aircraft had departed from the same airfield for an unidentified purpose. Following an aerial taxiing maneuver, the pilot attempted to land but lost control of the aircraft, resulting in a collision with the ground. The impact caused substantial damage to the helicopter, while the pilot sustained light injuries.
The investigation
The investigation, conducted by SERIPA IV, utilized security camera footage from the aerodrome, which confirmed the sequence of events involving the aerial taxiing and the subsequent loss of control during the landing phase.
Investigators discovered significant regulatory non-compliance regarding both the pilot and the aircraft. The individual operating the aircraft did not possess a valid helicopter pilot license, rating, or a valid Aeronautical Medical Certificate (CMA). Furthermore, the aircraft's airworthiness status was compromised; its Certificate of Airworthiness (CA) was suspended, and its Airworthiness Verification Certificate (CVA) had expired on June 24, 2022.
Regarding the aircraft's history, records from ANAC indicated that the PR-GCO had been transferred to the current operator following a judicial sale. The operator stated the aircraft was acquired via auction without accompanying documentation and that efforts to regularize the aircraft's status had not been completed prior to the accident. No required operational documents were found on board the aircraft at the time of the occurrence.
Findings
- The aircraft was operated by an individual without a valid pilot license or rating.
- The pilot lacked a valid Aeronautical Medical Certificate.
- The aircraft was flying with a suspended Certificate of Airworthiness and an expired Airworthiness Verification Certificate.
- Lack of adherence to aviation regulations was the primary contributing factor, creating unsafe operating conditions.