What happened
On September 3, 2020, at approximately 10:30 UTC, a Cessna U206F, registration PT-KJU, departed from Estância Santa Maria Airport (SSKG) in Campo Grande, Mato Grosso, bound for Corumbá. The flight was a private operation intended for cargo and passenger transport, carrying one pilot and one passenger.
During the initial climb, the aircraft failed to achieve the expected performance levels. In an attempt to recover, the pilot initiated a left turn to return to the runway; however, the maneuver was unsuccessful, and the aircraft impacted trees in the northern sector of the airfield. The aircraft sustained substantial damage, but both occupants survived the impact without injuries.
The investigation
CENIPA investigators examined the aircraft's mechanical condition, the pilot's credentials, and the cargo configuration. The investigation confirmed that the pilot was properly licensed and medically certified, and the aircraft's airworthiness documentation and maintenance records were up to date. The engine and propeller were found to be in normal operating condition, and the fuel used met all regulatory specifications.
Upon analyzing the wreckage, investigators found that the rear seat had been removed to accommodate cargo. A weight and balance calculation revealed that the total takeoff weight was 3,825 lbs, which exceeded the maximum allowable takeoff weight of 3,600 lbs by 225 lbs. Furthermore, the cargo was distributed in a manner that placed the center of gravity at approximately 52.55 inches, well outside the permitted envelope of 42.50 to 49.70 inches.
Findings
- The aircraft was operating beyond its maximum takeoff weight.
- The center of gravity was outside of the approved operational limits.
- The cargo was not properly secured or lashed within the cabin.
- The weight distribution of the cargo contributed to the aircraft's degraded climb performance and loss of control.