What happened
On February 1, 2007, at approximately 08:40 UTC, a Neiva EMB-202, registration PT-UHI, was performing agricultural spraying operations at the Usina Coruripe in Coruripe, Alagoas. The aircraft, operated by Usina Coruripe Açúcar e Álcool, was executing its fifth spray pass of the day. Having completed four previous loads, the aircraft was reloaded with 600 liters of pesticide and 60 liters of aviation gasoline, remaining within the manufacturer's weight and balance limits.
During this fifth pass, the pilot flew at an altitude of approximately 4 to 5 meters above the ground. To manage the proximity of an electrical power line at the edge of the field, a ground assistant had placed white flags to serve as a visual reference. The plan was for the pilot to close the spray valves and begin a climb once the flags were sighted, 100 meters before reaching the wires. Upon spotting the flags, the pilot initiated the climb; however, the lower fuselage of the aircraft struck the power lines. Following the collision, the aircraft struck the ground roughly 200 meters away, overturned, and came to rest on its back. The pilot sustained minor injuries, including broken ribs and facial abrasions, but was able to egress the aircraft safely.
The investigation
The investigation conducted by SERIPA II established that the aircraft was in an airworthy condition and that the pilot was experienced and properly licensed for agricultural operations. Meteorological conditions were favorable, and there was no evidence of sun glare or mechanical failure contributing to the accident.
Investigators determined that the primary issue lay in the placement of the visual markers. While the operational plan required the flags to be placed 100 meters from the power lines, measurements taken during the investigation revealed they were actually positioned only 55 meters from the wires. This significantly reduced the distance available for the pilot to execute a safe climb, especially given the aircraft's weight during the spraying pass.
Findings
- The ground marker was placed at only 55 meters from the power lines instead of the intended 100 meters.
- Inadequate flight planning and a failure to verify the correct position of the visual references prior to the maneuver.
- Lack of adequate management supervision regarding the ground support team's actions.
- Organizational processes failed to ensure the accuracy of the safety markers used during the operation.