Insufficient Runway Length Leads to Loss of Control in Embraer EMB-711B

Casualties unknown • SANTA CRUZ DO ARARI, PA, BR

An Embraer EMB-711B aircraft experienced a loss of control during takeoff from an uncertified runway in Pará, Brazil, resulting in an emergency landing.

What happened

On October 8, 2012, an Embraer EMB-711B (registration PT-NRK), operated by Táxi Aéreo Dourado Ltda, departed from an uncertified landing strip in Santa Cruz do Arari, Pará. The aircraft was carrying one pilot and three passengers. Shortly after takeoff, the pilot reported a loss of engine power, which necessitated an immediate emergency landing in an open field approximately 100 meters from the takeoff site. The aircraft landed with its landing gear retracted, causing damage to the propeller, engine, and upper fuselage/wings. All four occupants escaped the incident without injury.

The investigation

Investigators from SERIPA I conducted a thorough examination of the engine, fuel, and ignition systems at an authorized workshop. The analysis revealed no evidence of internal engine malfunction, and no contamination was found in the oil, oil filter, or fuel. All maintenance records indicated that the aircraft was up to date with required inspections.

Technical analysis of the takeoff conditions revealed that the aircraft weighed 1,150 kg and was operating with 25° flaps. Wind conditions at the time indicated a tailwind of approximately 15 knots. Based on the aircraft's performance charts, a takeoff roll of slightly more than 600 meters was required under these specific conditions. However, the uncertified runway used for the operation measured only 540 meters by 10 meters, making the strip insufficient for a safe departure.

Findings

  • The aircraft attempted takeoff using a runway length that was insufficient for the calculated takeoff distance required under the prevailing weight and wind conditions.
  • The operation was conducted from an uncertified and unregistered landing strip.
  • The pilot failed to file a flight plan prior to departure.
  • The flight was conducted in violation of safety regulations regarding operations at locations that do not offer a reasonable probability of safe operation.

Safety action

  • CENIPA recommended that the National Civil Aviation Agency (ANAC) perform a technical audit of Táxi Aereo Dourado Ltda to improve Safety Management Systems (SMS), specifically regarding hazard analysis and risk management.
  • A recommendation was made to coordinate with the local municipality of Santa Cruz do Arari to address the risks of using uncertified runways and to pursue formal runway certification.
  • Authorities were advised to intensify inspections of air taxi operations in the Belém region, focusing on the use of unregistered or uncertified landing sites.

Probable cause

The primary cause of the accident was the use of a runway that was too short to accommodate the required takeoff distance given the aircraft's weight and the existing tailwind, compounded by the use of an uncertified landing strip and the failure to file a flight plan.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 2012-10-08 aircraft accident near SANTA CRUZ DO ARARI, PA, BR?

An Embraer EMB-711B aircraft experienced a loss of control during takeoff from an uncertified runway in Pará, Brazil, resulting in an emergency landing.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 2012-10-08 involved a aircraft, registration PTNRK, at SANTA CRUZ DO ARARI, PA, BR.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The primary cause of the accident was the use of a runway that was too short to accommodate the required takeoff distance given the aircraft's weight and the existing tailwind, compounded by the use of an uncertified landing strip and the failure to file a flight plan.

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