What happened
On November 17, 2015, at approximately 15:55 UTC, a Chincul Sacaifi PA-25-235, registration PT-OST, was performing an agricultural spraying mission at the Aero do Vale Miracatu Aerodrome in Miracatu, São Paulo. The aircraft was operated by Aero Agrícola do Vale Ltda.
During the takeoff roll on runway 26, the pilot noted that the aircraft required a longer distance than usual to become airborne but proceeded with the takeoff. Shortly after leaving the ground and crossing the opposite end of the runway, the aircraft experienced a loss of lift. In an attempt to avoid hitting nearby banana trees, the pilot extended the flaps to their maximum deflection of 57 degrees and applied back pressure. This maneuver increased drag, causing the aircraft to sink and collide with the ground approximately 300 meters ahead of the runway. The aircraft sustained substantial damage, but the pilot remained uninjured.
The investigation
CENIPA's investigation established that the aircraft was within its weight and balance limits, with a total takeoff weight of approximately 1,216 kg, which was 100 kg below the maximum takeoff weight. The engine was functioning normally throughout the event, and the pilot was fully qualified and experienced.
Investigators found that the aircraft's owner manual provided performance data only for standard conditions (sea level and 15°C), lacking the necessary charts to calculate performance based on variables such as temperature, altitude, or wind. Consequently, no formal flight planning regarding aircraft performance was conducted for the specific environmental conditions of the day, which included a temperature of approximately 30°C.
Furthermore, the investigation revealed that the takeoff was performed with the flaps in an intermediate position, whereas the manufacturer's manual prescribed that takeoffs should be performed with the flaps retracted. The pilot's decision to extend the flaps to maximum deflection during the loss of lift further contributed to the descent by increasing aerodynamic drag.
Findings
- The pilot failed to perform adequate flight planning regarding aircraft performance relative to environmental conditions.
- The takeoff was executed using an incorrect flap configuration, deviating from the manufacturer's recommended retracted position.
- Inadequate pilot judgment and improper use of flight controls during the emergency maneuver led to increased drag and the subsequent impact.
- The aircraft's documentation lacked sufficient performance data for non-standard atmospheric conditions.