What happened
On October 13, 2021, a Cessna 182F, registration PP-BOZ, was performing a cargo flight from an unregistered strip at Garimpo Nova Vida to the Crepurizão Aerodrome in Itaituba, Pará. During the final approach to the runway, the engine failed. Although the pilot attempted restart procedures and the engine briefly resumed operation, a second failure occurred immediately upon advancing the throttle. The aircraft lost altitude and struck the canopy of a tree approximately 250 meters from the runway threshold. The aircraft became lodged in the vegetation before falling to the ground. The pilot sustained light injuries, while the aircraft suffered substantial damage.
The investigation
CENIPA investigators examined the engine and airframe, uncovering significant discrepancies in maintenance and airworthiness. While the pilot held a valid medical certificate and single-engine land rating, the aircraft's maintenance records were incomplete and inconsistent. Investigators found that the engine was not in compliance with its type certificate. Specifically, the engine contained cylinders and spark plugs intended for different engine models, and several connecting rods were installed in the wrong positions. Additionally, the left magneto exhibited instability at low RPM and improper contact point settings.
Furthermore, the investigation revealed that the aircraft's component control map did not match the actual parts installed, and an oil pressure hose was past its service life. The lack of updated logbooks and the absence of a flight log prevented a full verification of the aircraft's total hours or recent maintenance actions. The investigation also noted that the flight originated from an unregistered airstrip, violating operational regulations.
Findings
- The engine failure was likely caused by fuel exhaustion, as no fuel was found in the wing tanks or the carburetor, though severe galvanic corrosion in the accelerator pump suggested potential water contamination.
- The engine was not in an airworthy condition due to the installation of incompatible cylinders, incorrect spark plugs, and improperly positioned connecting rods.
- Significant maintenance oversight was identified, including the use of expired components and failure to document part replacements.
- The pilot's flight planning and the use of an unregistered departure strip contributed to the accident sequence.