What happened
On October 6, 2020, at approximately 18:00 UTC, a Robinson R44 II helicopter, registration PR-NMA, was involved in a collision with obstacles in a rural area of Trindade, Goiás. The aircraft, operated by Jota Pulverizações Ltda, was positioned on a trailer for the purpose of being moved to a nearby hangar on the same property.
During the takeoff attempt, the aircraft collided with several palm trees located near the takeoff site. The impact resulted in substantial damage to the helicopter. The pilot was able to exit the aircraft uninjured.
The investigation
CENIPA investigators learned of the occurrence through a notification from the National Civil Aviation Agency (ANAC) in March 2021, after the aircraft was discovered undergoing repairs in a hangar. The investigation revealed that the operator, while registered for agricultural spraying, was not listed as an authorized air operator by ANAC.
Regarding the pilot, while the medical certificate and helicopter rating were valid at the time, records indicated that the pilot had not flown a helicopter for 16 months. Consequently, investigators could not verify if the pilot met the requirements for recent flight experience. Additionally, the investigation noted that the takeoff was performed from an inadequate platform—a trailer—in close proximity to obstacles, during a period of wind gusts up to 28 knots.
Findings
- The takeoff was performed from an improvised and inadequate surface (a trailer).
- The pilot's lack of recent flight experience likely affected the ability to properly evaluate aircraft performance and control parameters.
- The flight planning and decision-making processes were inadequate for the circumstances.
- The operation demonstrated an attitude of overconfidence and improvisation, disregarding established operational procedures.