What happened
On November 2, 2003, a Cessna 182J, registration PT-CLI, was performing a low-altitude seed dispersal operation near a forest in Colniza, Mato Grosso. The aircraft was flying at approximately five meters above the ground along a roadside when the pilot initiated a recovery maneuver following a pass. During this maneuver, the left wing struck a Brazil nut tree at an altitude of roughly 40 meters. The impact caused the aircraft to yaw sharply to the left, leading to a loss of control. The aircraft traveled approximately 400 meters through the air before impacting the ground within a forested area. All five occupants—the pilot and four passengers—sustered fatal injuries.
The investigation
CENIPA's investigation revealed a series of severe regulatory and operational violations. The individual operating the aircraft did not possess a pilot's license or any formal flight training, though witnesses suggested they had approximately 100 hours of flight time in this specific aircraft. The investigation also found that the aircraft's Certificate of Airworthiness had been canceled due to several irregularities, including expired maintenance inspections, an expired aeronautical insurance policy, and irregular radio station licensing. Furthermore, the aircraft was equipped with a non-homologated agricultural seeding kit attached to the fuselage, which altered its aerodynamic characteristics.
Findings
- The pilot was unlicensed and unqualified to perform the operation.
- The aircraft was operating significantly above its maximum takeoff weight; the estimated weight at takeoff was 1,514kg, exceeding the manual's limit of 1,270kg.
- The aircraft was carrying an unauthorized fifth occupant, exceeding its certified capacity of four.
- The use of a non-homologated agricultural kit contributed to the aerodynamic instability during the maneuver.
- The aircraft was in an unairworthy condition due to expired maintenance and documentation.