What happened
On August 1, 2018, an Embraer EMB-711ST, registration PT-RKA, was performing a private transport flight from Formoso do Araguaia, TO, toward Formosa, GO. The aircraft was carrying a pilot and three passengers. During the cruise phase, approximately 15 minutes before the scheduled arrival, the engine suffered a loss of power.
In an attempt to land the aircraft in an open field, the pilot executed a forced landing. During the final approach, the right wing of the aircraft struck a tree, causing the plane to impact the ground. The accident resulted in substantial damage to the aircraft, and all four occupants sustained serious injuries.
The investigation
CENIPA investigators examined the Continental TSIO-360-FB engine at a certified maintenance facility. While the magnetos functioned normally, investigators discovered that the first fuel injector was obstructed. Although the exact cause of the blockage could not be determined, it was identified as a likely cause for the cylinder failure and subsequent power loss.
Analysis of the aircraft's GPS data revealed that the flight pattern on the day of the accident involved multiple takeoffs and landings. Investigators noted that one specific leg of the flight took significantly longer than usual, possibly due to interaction with a passenger. Furthermore, fuel gauges were observed to be near minimum levels during the final leg of the flight.
Investigators also noted that the aircraft's engine logbook was not up to date regarding a power cable replacement. Additionally, the aircraft's checklist was stored in the rear of the cabin with other documents, meaning the pilot was likely relying on memory for procedures, which may have hindered performance during the emergency.
Findings
- The primary cause of the engine failure was likely an obstructed fuel injector.
- A secondary possibility of fuel exhaustion was considered, as the high frequency of takeoffs and landings during the day likely reduced the aircraft's projected endurance.
- Inadequate flight planning and fuel management contributed to the incident.
- The pilot's reliance on memory for checklists due to poor document accessibility may have impacted the emergency response.