What happened
On October 18, 2018, a CAP-4 aircraft registered as PP-HCP was conducting local training flights at the Silvio Name Júnior Aerodrome (SBMG) in Maringá, Paraná. The flight involved two crew members: an instructor and a student pilot. After completing several touch-and-go maneuvers, the aircraft landed on runway 28 before severe weather arrived.
Following the landing, the aircraft taxied along taxiway A toward remote area number 2. As it passed in front of the passenger terminal, it was struck by a strong wind gust associated with an approaching meteorological formation. The force of the wind caused the aircraft to capsize and come to rest on its back.
The investigation
CENIPA examined the flight history, maintenance records, and meteorological data. The aircraft had valid airworthiness certification and was within weight and balance limits. However, the logbooks for the airframe and engine were found to be outdated, with hours recorded in pencil contrary to regulations.
Meteorological reports indicated that conditions deteriorated rapidly. While the METAR at 1700Z showed light winds, the SPECI issued at 1800Z reported visibility dropping to 400 meters due to thunderstorms and heavy rain. Wind direction shifted to 170 degrees with speeds varying between 30 and 53 knots.
Findings
The investigation concluded that adverse weather conditions were the primary contributing factor. The unexpected strong wind gusts interfered decisively with the safe operation of the aircraft during taxiing, causing the capsize. Both crew members exited the aircraft unharmed despite substantial damage to the airframe.
Safety action
CENIPA issued a safety recommendation to ANAC to urge the Aeroclube Regional de Maringá to reinforce the correct recording of flight hours in aircraft logbooks, as required by regulation IS 43.9-003B.