What happened
On December 5, 2022, at approximately 20:40 UTC, a Piper PA-25-235, registration PT-WBH, was performing a local instructional flight near the Comandante Antônio Beraldo Aerodrome in Ponta Grossa, Paraná. The aircraft was being operated by Aeroclube de Ponta Grossa as part of an advanced phase of an agricultural pilot training course.
During the final approach for landing on Runway 26, the aircraft lost altitude and struck treetops in a dense forest area before colliding with the ground. The impact caused substantial damage to the aircraft, and the pilot sustained minor injuries.
The investigation
CENIPA investigators examined the aircraft's powerplant, including the Lycoming engine, magnetos, fuel system, and propeller. While the pilot reported a perceived loss of engine power due to a drop in RPM, technical examinations revealed no abnormalities in the ignition, lubrication, or fuel supply systems. Fuel samples also met all specification requirements.
Physical evidence at the crash site, including damage to the left wing and the aircraft's final resting position, indicated the airplane was in a nose-down attitude and rolling to the left at the time of impact. This flight profile was consistent with a spin.
Findings
- The investigation determined that engine failure was not a contributing factor, as the powerplant was fully operational.
- The aircraft was operating within approved weight and balance limits.
- Meteorological conditions were compatible with VFR flight operations.
- The pilot's flight training curriculum lacked specific instruction regarding in-flight stall identification and recovery.
- The loss of control was likely caused by an inadequate assessment of airspeed and configuration during approach, leading to a stall and subsequent spin.
- Inadequate administrative supervision was noted regarding the evaluation of the pilot's progress in the training course.