Loss of Control Accident Involving EMB 810C in Manaus

Casualties unknown • MANAUS, AM, BR

An EMB 810C aircraft crashed near Manaus, Brazil, after experiencing a sudden pitch-up and stall, resulting in seven fatalities.

What happened

On April 21, 2011, an EMB 810C, registration PT-EFS, departed from Eduardo Gomes Airport (SBEG) in Manaus, Brazil, bound for Santarém. The aircraft was carrying two crew members and five passengers. Shortly after takeoff, upon reaching an altitude of approximately 300 feet and following the retraction of the landing gear, the aircraft experienced a sudden pitch-up attitude. This maneuver led to a lateral wing oscillation and a sharp descent of the left wing. The aircraft subsequently entered an abnormal attitude and struck the ground at an angle of nearly 90 degrees, approximately 300 meters from the runway. The impact caused severe damage to the airframe, and all seven fatalities (two crew and five passengers) occurred at the scene.

The investigation

CENIPA's investigation focused on the aircraft's performance and the operational planning of the flight. Investigators reviewed the aircraft's maintenance records, which showed a recent 50-hour inspection had been completed just 12 hours prior to the accident. The investigation also examined the flight planning process, noting that the flight was planned on the day of the occurrence due to uncertainty regarding the number of passengers. Analysis of the takeoff roll revealed that the aircraft used approximately 160 meters more than necessary and reached a rotation speed 11 knots higher than standard, likely due to the aircraft's loading conditions. Furthermore, investigators reviewed the relationship between the crew and the operator, noting an informal organizational culture that may have influenced safety margins.

Findings

  • The aircraft was operating outside of weight and balance limits, with an excess weight of 255kg.
  • The Center of Gravity (CG) was located behind the limits established by the manufacturer.
  • The crew failed to perform adequate flight planning, leading to an improper distribution of passengers and cargo.
  • The crew's decision-making was compromised by a lack of formal weight and balance verification.
  • An informal organizational culture and a relaxed atmosphere during the flight may have reduced the crew's critical assessment of operational risks.

Probable cause

The accident was caused by the aircraft operating outside of its certified weight and balance limits, specifically with an aft Center of Gravity, which induced a pitch-up tendency and subsequent stall/spin at a low altitude.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 2011-04-21 aircraft accident near MANAUS, AM, BR?

An EMB 810C aircraft crashed near Manaus, Brazil, after experiencing a sudden pitch-up and stall, resulting in seven fatalities.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 2011-04-21 involved a aircraft, registration PTEFS, at MANAUS, AM, BR.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The accident was caused by the aircraft operating outside of its certified weight and balance limits, specifically with an aft Center of Gravity, which induced a pitch-up tendency and subsequent stall/spin at a low altitude.

Loading the flight search…