What happened
On July 12, 2012, at approximately 20:15 UTC, an Embraer EMB-121A, registration PT-MAB, crashed into the sea near Angra dos Reis, Brazil. The aircraft, operated by Banjet Taxi Aéreo, had departed from Belo Horizonte (SBBH) for Angra dos Reis (SDAG) carrying two pilots and one passenger.
As the aircraft approached its destination, a cold front was moving through the region, bringing heavy rain, wind gusts, and reduced visibility. While flying at a low altitude over the ocean, approximately 3NM from the destination aerodrome and 500 meters from the coastline, the aircraft struck the water. The impact destroyed the aircraft, and all three fatalities (two crew members and one passenger) were confirmed.
The investigation
CENIPA's investigation focused on the flight path and the decision-making process of the crew. Investigators found that the aircraft was mechanically sound, with both engines functioning normally until the moment of impact. The aircraft was also within weight and balance limits, and all maintenance inspections were up to date.
Analysis of the wreckage showed that the right wing struck the water first, followed by the right engine at high power. The momentum caused the left wing to be torn from its attachment point. The investigation also examined meteorological data, which confirmed a significant degradation in weather conditions, including low ceilings and restricted visibility, due to the approaching cold front. Witnesses reported seeing the aircraft performing low-altitude turns in the area prior to the crash.
Findings
- Flight Discipline: The crew intentionally violated operational regulations by descending below the minimum VFR (Visual Flight Rules) limits to attempt to remain in visual conditions.
- Adverse Weather: The presence of a cold front, characterized by wind shear, gusts, and heavy rain, likely compromised the crew's ability to maintain effective control during low-altitude maneuvers.
- Pilot Judgment: The crew failed to properly assess the risks of flying in marginal safety conditions. Instead of diverting to an alternate airport—which was a viable option given the aircraft's IFR capabilities and sufficient fuel—the pilots chose to continue the descent in search of the runway.
- Operational Decision: The decision to continue the flight under deteriorating conditions, combined with the high workload of searching for the runway in low visibility, led to the controlled flight into terrain (CFIT).