What happened
On March 5, 2008, a Neiva EMB-711C, registration PT-NOU, departed from Aeródromo Fazenda Arataú in Novo Repartimento, Pará, bound for Aeródromo Frisama Eldorado in Eldorado dos Carajás, Pará. The flight was operating as a private passenger transport, carrying one pilot and three passengers.
Upon arrival at the destination, the pilot performed a normal landing. However, approximately 150 meters from the runway threshold, the aircraft experienced a loss of control on the ground. The aircraft struck a rock, which caused damage to the left main landing gear and induced a 180-degree yaw to the left side of the runway. The impact caused the nose gear to retract due to the uncompacted surface of the runway side, subsequently leading to propeller contact with the ground. The aircraft sustained substantial damage, though all four occupants escaped without injury.
The investigation
The investigation by SERIPA I revealed that the pilot, holding a Private Pilot (PPL) license, was performing remunerated services, which violated Brazilian Civil Aviation Regulations (RBAC 61). At the time of the accident, the pilot had only 95 total flight hours, with only 2.5 hours in the EMB-711C model, indicating very limited experience.
Investigators also found that the pilot was aware that the first 100 meters of the runway at SJHL were in poor condition due to tall grass and holes, yet proceeded with the landing without taking preventive measures. Furthermore, the investigation was hindered by a delay in notification; the operator moved the aircraft to a maintenance facility without informing the authorities, and SERIPA I was only officially notified months after the event.
Findings
- The pilot's complacent attitude regarding known runway hazards.
- Inadequate airport infrastructure, specifically the uncompacted runway surface and existing hazards.
- The pilot's lack of flight experience in the aircraft type.
- Lack of managerial oversight regarding the legality of the flight operations.
- The pilot was conducting remunerated operations in violation of the limitations of a Private Pilot license.