What happened
On September 28, 2015, a Neiva EMB-201A, registration PT-GRT, was performing touch-and-go training maneuvers at an unpaved landing strip in Japuranã, Nova Bandeirantes, Mato Grosso. The aircraft, operated by Aeroagrícola Bela Vista Ltda., was carrying 200kg of seeds with an estimated total weight of 1,600kg.
During the third training maneuver, the pilot touched down approximately 300 meters beyond the start of the runway threshold. Upon initiating the go-around, the aircraft failed to gain sufficient lift to clear obstacles at the end of the strip. The aircraft subsequently collided with trees located at the runway's end, resulting in substantial damage to the airframe, including wing and landing gear failure, as well as engine and fuselage damage. The pilot was uninjured.
The investigation
The CENIPA investigation established that the landing strip, consisting of compacted earth, was approximately 700 meters long. Based on the aircraft's performance tables for the given temperature (30°C) and pressure altitude, a takeoff distance of approximately 748 meters was required.
Because the touchdown occurred 300 meters into the strip, only about 400 meters of runway remained. This distance was insufficient to complete the required takeoff roll for the aircraft's weight and environmental conditions. The investigation noted that the successful execution of previous maneuvers may have led to an inaccurate assessment of the necessary runway length for the third attempt.
Findings
- Inadequate runway remaining: The distance available after touchdown was insufficient for a successful go-around.
- Pilot judgment: Errors in evaluating the safety of the maneuver.
- Flight planning and decision-making: Deficiencies in the planning and execution of the training maneuvers on an unprepared strip.
Safety action
CENIPA issued a recommendation to the National Civil Aviation Agency (ANAC) to work with the operator, Aeroagrícola Bela Vista Ltda., to re-evaluate its Safety Management System (SMS), specifically regarding risk management processes when operating on unpaved or temporary landing strips.