What happened
On November 22, 2009, a Cessna T210R, registration PR-KKR, was performing a private flight from Pampulha (SBBH) to Jundia-ia (SBJD) with one pilot and five passengers. After the initial leg of the flight, the pilot decided not to refuel at the intermediate stop, believing the remaining fuel would be sufficient for the return journey.
During the second leg of the flight, the pilot noticed discrepancies in the fuel level indicators, specifically noting a lower level in the right tank. While descending toward Bragança Paulista (SBBP) to perform a technical landing for refueling, the engine began to lose power. Despite the activation of the fuel pump, the engine stopped completely. The pilot executed an emergency landing on the Capitão Bardoíno Highway near Pinhalzinho, SP. Following the touchdown, the aircraft lost control and collided with natural obstacles and vegetation on the roadside, resulting in substantial damage to the left wing, fuselage, and elevator leading edge. All six occupants escaped without injury.
The investigation
CENIPA investigators examined the aircraft's maintenance records and found that the logbooks for the airframe, engine, and propeller were outdated. The investigation also reviewed the fuel consumption for the flight segments. Based on the aircraft's operating manual, it was estimated that the aircraft had approximately 206 pounds of usable fuel available for the second leg. Given an average consumption rate, this provided roughly 88 minutes of flight endurance, which closely matched the time elapsed until the engine failure.
An operational check of the engine performed by a certified workshop following the accident showed that the engine was functioning normally. Additionally, fuel samples analyzed by the Aeronautical and Space Institute (IAE) confirmed that the fuel met required standards.
Findings
- The pilot failed to properly evaluate the fuel consumption required for the return leg.
- The pilot lacked specific experience with the aircraft type and the route being flown.
- The decision not to refuel at the intermediate stop was a critical factor in the fuel exhaustion scenario.