What happened
On August 28, 2018, a Neiva EMB-202, registration PT-GOU, departed from the Cachoeira do Sul Aerodrome (SSKS) in Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil. The flight was intended as a local training mission to revalidate the pilot's agricultural flight rating.
While performing the base leg of the landing pattern, the aircraft entered a turn to align with the final approach. During this maneuver, the aircraft descended to an altitude of approximately 300 feet and struck a eucalyptus plantation. The impact caused the aircraft to catch fire, resulting in its total destruction. The pilot sustained fatal injuries.
The investigation
CENIPA investigators examined the aircraft's mechanical condition and the pilot's credentials. The investigation confirmed that the aircraft's airworthiness certificate was valid, and the plane was within its proper weight and balance limits. Maintenance records for the airframe, engine, and propeller were up to date. Although the engine sustained severe damage from the impact, investigators found no mechanical discrepancies; evidence indicated the engine was producing power at the time of the accident.
Regarding the pilot, while his single-engine land (MNTE) and agricultural pilot (PAGA) ratings had expired in May 2018, he had successfully completed a revalidation flight in a different aircraft on the morning of the accident. The pilot was highly experienced in the EMB-202 model, having operated agricultural aircraft since 1986. His medical certificate was valid, and there were no known health or psychological issues that would have impaired his performance.
Due to the intense fire and subsequent carbonization of the wreckage, investigators were unable to perform a detailed inspection of certain instruments or confirm whether a sudden loss of consciousness occurred during the turn.
Findings
- The aircraft lost altitude during a turn while attempting to align with the final approach.
- The exact cause of the loss of altitude remains undetermined due to the lack of conclusive evidence following the intense fire.