What happened
On July 27, 2018, a Conquest 180 aircraft, registration PU-OGL, departed from Aeródromo Costa Esmeralda in Porto Belo, Brazil, bound for Itanhaém, São Paulo. The flight was intended to be a visual flight rules (VFR) recreational mission. During the flight, the aircraft disappeared, and no contact was established with the pilot.
Following the disappearance, search operations were conducted by the Brazilian Air Force and local fire departments. Debris, including a landing gear wheel and parts of the fuselage, were discovered near the shoreline in Itapema, Santa Catarina. After 21 days, the pilot's body was recovered from the sea by local fishermen.
The investigation
CENIPA's investigation focused on the meteorological conditions and the pilot's decision-making process. At the time of departure, visibility was approximately 5,000 meters with a ceiling of only 600 feet, accompanied by mist. Satellite imagery confirmed significant cloud cover over the intended flight path.
The investigation established that the pilot held a valid private pilot license and medical certificate, but lacked an instrument rating (IFR). Furthermore, the Conquest 180 was not certified for IFR operations. The investigation also noted that the pilot had limited experience with this specific aircraft type and had recently purchased it. Evidence suggested the aircraft struck the sea surface at high speed, as indicated by the structural damage to the recovered fragments and the nature of the pilot's injuries.
Findings
- The pilot's decision-making process was a contributing factor, as he chose to depart despite weather conditions that were unsuitable for VFR flight.
- The flight planning was inadequate, as the meteorological conditions did not support the intended flight level.
- The pilot lacked experience with the specific aircraft model, which was more advanced than his previous training aircraft.
- The pilot's decision to fly in marginal weather was likely influenced by personal motivations to complete the trip.