What happened
On May 28, 2012, a Piper PA-28-140, registration PT-JEO, was conducting a private pilot training flight departing from the Ponta Grossa Aerodrome (SSZW) in Paraná, Brazil. The flight crew consisted of an instructor and a student.
During the flight, after completing the fourth visual traffic pattern, the student pilot performed a simulated go-around. Following this maneuver, the aircraft entered a left-hand turn, which led to an aerodynamic stall. The instructor took control of the aircraft in an attempt to return to the runway; however, the maneuver was unsuccessful. The crew was forced to perform an emergency landing near the threshold of runway 2/4 (head of runway 25). The impact caused substantial damage to the engine, propeller, fuselage, and wings. Both occupants sustained serious injuries.
The investigation
CENIPA investigators examined the propulsion system to identify potential mechanical failures. The investigation included the disassembly of the engine to test the operation of the magnetos and spark plugs at a facility in Curitiba, as well as a carburetor performance test conducted in São Paulo. These technical evaluations revealed no abnormalities in the engine or carburetor that could have contributed to the accident.
Additionally, the investigation reviewed the airworthiness status and maintenance records. While the aircraft held a valid Certificate of Airworthiness and was within weight and balance limits, investigators noted that the maintenance logs for the airframe, engine, and propeller were not up to date. The flight crew's credentials, including medical certificates and technical ratings, were found to be valid at the time of the occurrence.