What happened
On October 24, 2023, an Embraer EMB-710C, registration PT-NFA, was conducting a private flight from Forquilhinha, SC, to Frederico Westphalen, RS. During the descent, the pilot noticed engine power oscillations. To mitigate the situation, the pilot decided to perform an emergency landing at a private grass airstrip located at Fazenda Santa Lúcia in Alprestre, RS.
The aircraft approached the 580-meter grass runway with a tailwind and a wet surface. During the landing flare, the aircraft floated, touching down approximately 250 meters beyond the runway threshold. Due to the high approach speed and the runway conditions, the aircraft could not stop within the remaining distance, overrunning the runway and colliding with a fence and an embankment. The accident resulted in substantial damage to the aircraft, with the pilot sustaining serious injuries and the passenger sustaining minor injuries.
The investigation
CENIPA investigators examined the engine and mechanical components of the PT-NFA. Tests on the engine, including compression checks, magneto functionality, and fuel system inspections (pump, carburetor, and throttle valve), revealed no malfunctions. The propeller deformation was consistent with an impact at low power, typical of a landing maneuver.
Investigators also reviewed the aircraft's maintenance logs and found that the engine and airframe records were not up to date, with the last monthly usage entry dating back to June 2023. Furthermore, the investigation identified that the airstrip at Fazenda Santa Lúcia was not registered with ANAC and was in the process of being registered with CINDACTA II. Evidence showed the operator had previously used this unregistered strip on at least two occasions earlier in 2023, violating Brazilian civil aviation regulations (RBAC 91).
Findings
- The pilot approached the runway at approximately 82 knots, which was significantly higher than the 66 knots recommended by the manufacturer's manual for a power-off landing at that weight.
- The landing occurred on a wet, unpaved grass surface with a tailwind, which significantly increased the required stopping distance.
- Improper application of flight controls was the contributing factor to the excursion.
- The aircraft was operating at an unregistered airstrip, contrary to regulatory requirements.