What happened
On November 18, 2017, a Cessna A185F, registration PR-ARV, departed from Araçatuba, SP, en route to Avaré, SP. During the flight, the pilot conducted low-altitude maneuvers over the Jurumiri reservoir near the São Joaquim farm in Arandu, SP.
In an attempt to reduce the aircraft's airspeed, the pilot performed an unplanned maneuver by intentionally touching the tires against the surface of the water. Following a series of takeoffs and landings on the reservoir's banks, the aircraft collided with the water, resulting in a loss of control and a subsequent capsize. The aircraft sustained substantial damage, though the pilot remained uninjured.
The investigation
CENIPA investigators confirmed that the pilot held valid medical and single-engine land certifications and possessed experience relevant to the intended flight type. The aircraft also maintained a valid airworthiness certificate. The investigation focused on the pilot's decision to perform unauthorized low-altitude maneuvers and landings in an unsuitable location. Due to the nature of the event involving a direct violation of aeronautical regulations, the investigation was officially interrupted, as the findings indicated that safety improvements rely on strict adherence to existing flight regulations.