What happened
On August 30, 2014, a Cessna 177B, registered as PT-DLA, departed from Bacacheri Aerodrome (SBBI) in Curitiba, Brazil, bound for Londrina (SSOK). Shortly after takeoff, the aircraft was unable to maintain its rate of climb and entered a stall condition. The aircraft lost altitude and struck the roof of a house, subsequently hitting a parked vehicle and another building before a post-impact fire destroyed the wreckage.
The accident resulted in three fatalities, including the pilot and two passengers, while one remaining passenger sustained serious injuries.
The investigation
CENIPA investigators determined that the aircraft was operating significantly outside its certified weight and balance limits. At the time of departure, the aircraft was carrying the pilot, three passengers, and various pieces of baggage left over from a previous flight earlier that day. The investigation found that the actual takeoff weight exceeded the maximum allowable limit by more than 400 lbs, and the weight in the baggage compartment alone exceeded its certified limit by over 50 lbs.
Analysis of GPS data revealed that the aircraft lifted off at 60 mph but only reached a maximum speed of 68 mph, which is below the prescribed climb speed of 75 to 85 mph. Security camera footage from the aerodrome showed the aircraft flying at a high angle of attack without gaining altitude, suggesting a rearward shift in the center of gravity.
Findings
- Excessive takeoff weight was the primary factor in the loss of performance.
- The pilot's failure to adhere to weight and balance limitations and prescribed takeoff procedures contributed to the stall.
- Inadequate flight planning and a lack of proper weight and balance calculations were identified.
- The pilot's decision-making may have been compromised by self-imposed time pressure to complete the flight leg quickly.
- The aircraft's engine was found to be in an operative condition, and no mechanical failures were identified as causes for the descent.