What happened
On August 17, 2012, an Embraer EMB-810D, registration PT-VEH, was performing a local flight departing from Amarais Aerodrome (SDAM) in Campinas, Brazil. The flight was being conducted for training purposes by a single pilot.
As the aircraft crossed the runway threshold for landing, the pilot experienced light turbulence. Upon touchdown, with an airspeed between 65 and 70 knots, a sudden gust of wind struck the aircraft, causing it to veer toward the left side of the runway. Despite the pilot's attempts to correct the deviation, the aircraft exited the runway perimeter. The pilot escaped the incident uninjured, but the aircraft sustained substantial damage to the landing gear, fuselage, and right wing.
The investigation
CENIPA investigators examined the meteorological conditions and the pilot's actions during the landing phase. The investigation confirmed that the pilot held valid medical and technical certifications and was qualified for the type of operation. The aircraft was also found to be in a valid airworthy condition and within weight and balance limits.
Data analysis revealed that at the time of the landing, a crosswind of 10 knots was present. While this wind speed was within the operational limits for the Embraer EMB-810D, the investigation noted that the crosswind was significant enough to require precise control inputs to maintain the runway centerline.