What happened
On August 24, 2003, an AMT-200 aircraft, registration PP-KFB, was performing a local flight from the Itirapina Aerodrome (SDJA) in São Paulo, Brazil. The flight, which included a pilot and one passenger, had been underway for approximately one hour when the pilot began a descent for landing procedures.
During the approach, the pilot performed a low pass over the runway before entering the downwind leg. The aircraft was operating in a glider-like state, having cut the engine for a planned unpowered approach. During this phase, the pilot extended the landing gear, which increased the rate of sink. In an attempt to maintain sufficient altitude and safety margins, the pilot attempted to restart the engine. However, the engine failed to restart, likely due to the fuel selector being left in an intermediate position between the 'off' and 'right tank' settings.
As the aircraft drifted away from the safety cone of the runway, the pilot attempted a steep turn to realign with the final approach. During this maneuver, the pilot applied excessive back pressure and high bank angles, leading to an aerodynamic stall. The aircraft subsequently lost control and collided with the ground at an altitude of approximately 40 meters. The impact resulted in severe injuries for both the pilot and the passenger, and the aircraft was destroyed.
The investigation
CENIPA's investigation focused on the sequence of maneuvers and the pilot's decision-making during the critical moments of the approach. Investigators examined the aircraft's configuration, noting that the fuel selector was found in an intermediate position. The investigation also reviewed the pilot's experience, noting that while the pilot held valid commercial licenses for airplanes and helicopters, they lacked sufficient familiarity and experience with this specific aircraft type. Furthermore, the investigation looked into the pilot's psychological state, noting a reported lack of motivation for the flight and the influence of habits acquired from operating different types of aircraft.
Findings
- The pilot's inappropriate application of flight controls (excessive bank and pitch) during the turn to final caused the aircraft to enter a stall.
- The pilot's judgment was compromised by a lack of experience with the AMT-200, leading to an inadequate approach path and an unsafe decision to extend the landing gear at a low altitude.
- The failure to restart the engine was likely caused by the fuel selector being left in an intermediate position.
- The pilot's lack of familiarity with the aircraft's specific handling characteristics and procedures contributed to the loss of control.
- A lack of flight planning and improper execution of the low pass resulted in a loss of energy that necessitated an untimely engine restart attempt.