What happened
On July 19, 2013, a Hawker Beechcraft G3/G36, registration PR-KEX, crashed in a rural area at Mestiça Farm in Bonito, Mato Grosso do Sul. The aircraft was performing a private transport flight from Engano Farm, Porto Murtinho, to Presidente Prudente, São Paulo, carrying a pilot and one passenger.
During the flight, the aircraft struck the ground and was subsequently partially consumed by fire. The impact destroyed the aircraft, and both the pilot and the passenger sustained fatal injuries.
The investigation
CENIPA investigators examined the wreckage and meteorological data from a nearby station in Jardim, MS. The investigation found that the air temperature and dew point were nearly identical, with a relative humidity of 91%, conditions highly conducive to fog formation. The proximity of the Serra da Bodoquena mountains likely contributed to orographic fog through adiabatic cooling.
Investigators also reviewed the pilot's records, though the physical flight logbook was destroyed in the fire. While the pilot held a valid medical certificate and a single-engine land rating, he did not possess an IFR rating. Evidence from the wreckage, including the position of the flaps and the low RPM at impact, suggested the pilot may have been attempting a precautionary landing due to deteriorating visibility.
Findings
- Adverse meteorological conditions: The presence of dense fog in the region significantly reduced visibility, contributing to the accident.
- Inadequate flight planning: The pilot did not sufficiently analyze meteorological reports before departure, which would have indicated a forecast for degrading weather along the route.
- Decision-making and perception: The pilot relied on inaccurate weather information from acquaintances rather than official reports, leading to a loss of situational awareness and potentially flying in IMC conditions for which he was not rated.
- Potential motivation: The pilot's desire to reach his destination to spend the weekend with his family may have influenced his judgment regarding flight risks.