What happened
On December 21, 2022, a Cessna A188B, registration PT-WKW, was conducting an agricultural spraying mission at Fazenda Boa Vista in Quirinópolis, Goiás. The aircraft, operated by Textor Aviação Agrícola Ltda.-EPP, departed from the farm's landing strip to perform local pesticide application.
Following the completion of the spraying task, the pilot attempted to land on runway 21. Upon touchdown, the aircraft exhibited a tendency to yaw to the left. Despite the pilot applying opposite rudder and braking, the aircraft could not be corrected and veered off the left side of the landing strip. The aircraft eventually struck an earthen embankment and a barrier of tires that demarcated the edge of the landing area, traveling approximately 600 meters before coming to a complete stop. The impact resulted in substantial damage to the aircraft, though the pilot remained uninjured.
The investigation
CENIPA's investigation confirmed that the pilot was fully qualified, holding valid commercial licenses and medical certification. The aircraft was also in a compliant state, with a valid airworthiness certificate and up-to-date maintenance logs for the engine, propeller, and airframe. The aircraft was operating within its proper weight and balance limits.
Investigators analyzed regional meteorological data from nearby stations in São Simão, Rio Verde, and Itumbiara. While no significant storm formations were present, the data suggested that wind directions were variable, with estimated crosswind or gust components between 7 and 9 knots. The investigation also examined the landing strip, a gravel surface measuring approximately 1,050 meters by 25 meters, and noted the presence of tire marks on the ground indicating the leftward movement of the main landing gear prior to the collision.
Findings
- The pilot's flight controls application was indeterminate.
- Adverse meteorological conditions, specifically variable winds, were indeterminate.
- Pilot judgment was a contributing factor to the loss of control during the landing phase.