What happened
On July 10, 2010, a Neiva 56-C-1, registration PT-BOM, was performing a flight instruction mission from Bragança Paulista to Monte Verde. The flight involved an instructor and a student pilot. During the takeoff roll from the Monte Verde aerodrome, the engine lost power.
Upon the loss of power, the instructor took control of the aircraft and attempted an emergency landing on a local avenue. During the maneuver, the aircraft struck an electric utility pole, which caused the plane to capsize. The aircraft came to rest upside down in an empty lot. The impact with the electrical and telephone lines helped cushion the aircraft's descent, preventing a more catastrophic outcome.
The investigation
CENIPA investigators examined the aircraft and the fuel system following the accident. The investigation focused on the fuel configuration and the sequence of tank selections. At the time of the accident, the aircraft's lower tank contained 37 liters of fuel, while the upper tank was found to be empty.
Investigators noted that the aircraft had been fueled in Bragança Paulista with 46 liters in the lower tank and 12 liters in the upper tank. Because the engine was tested and functioned normally after the accident, investigators concluded that the engine failure was caused by fuel exhaustion from the selected tank rather than a mechanical malfunction. The investigation also reviewed the flight history, noting that the crew had waited for another aircraft to land before attempting their departure from Monte Verde, which provided a window for a potential error in fuel management.
Findings
- The engine lost power during the takeoff phase due to fuel exhaustion.
- The pilot likely failed to switch the fuel selector to the fuller lower tank before departing Monte Verde.
- The aircraft sustained severe damage to the wings, fuselage, landing gear, and windshield.
- The two crew members emerged from the wreckage uninjured.
- The aircraft was found in an inverted position.