What happened
On December 6, 2015, an EMB-7lar0D aircraft, registration PT-VNC, crashed near Trindade, Goiás, during a shuttle flight. The aircraft departed from Palmeira de Goiás Aerodrome (SWGP) bound for Goiânia (SWNV) carrying a pilot and two passengers. Approximately ten minutes after takeoff, the aircraft entered areas of convective activity and adverse weather. Radar data indicated the aircraft performed circling maneuvers within cloud formations before losing contact with air traffic control. The aircraft subsequently struck the ground with high kinetic energy, destroying the airframe and causing the deaths of all 3 occupants.
The investigation
CENIPA's investigation focused on the circumstances leading to the controlled flight into terrain (CFIT). Investigators examined meteorological reports, which showed the presence of towering cumulus clouds and rain in the area, conditions unsuitable for the pilot's Visual Flight Rules (VFR) qualification. The investigation also reviewed the pilot's training records, noting that the pilot had approximately 45 total flight hours and had been trained exclusively by a single instructor who also served as a freelance pilot for the aircraft owner. Analysis of the flight path suggested that as the pilot lost visual references due to the weather, he likely descended to seek visual contact with the ground, eventually leading to the collision.
Findings
- The pilot was flying under VFR but was not instrument-rated, making him unable to navigate safely through the encountered cloud formations.
- Adverse meteorological conditions, including heavy cloudiness and rain, significantly contributed to the loss of visual references.
- The pilot's decision-making was compromised by a lack of experience and an overconfidence in his ability to handle the weather.
- A lack of instructional oversight was noted, as the pilot's training and evaluations were conducted by a single instructor without external verification.
- The pilot's high motivation to complete his first solo flight after receiving his license may have influenced the decision to depart despite unfavorable weather.