Incident Overview
A twin-engine aircraft operating a charter flight from Rio Branco, Brazil, crashed near Bujari, approximately 39 kilometers from its departure point. The flight was intended to provide aerial views of indigenous tribal areas around Santa Rosa do Purus for four Japanese journalists. About 30 minutes after departure, an oil leak occurred in the left engine, leading to a loss of power. The pilot reduced altitude and attempted an emergency landing, but the aircraft impacted terrain near motorway BR364. All five occupants—the pilot and four passengers—were slightly injured.
Investigation Findings
Brazilian authorities conducted an investigation into the accident. The probable cause findings included the following:
- It is likely that the pilot did not use the controls properly to maintain adequate control of the airplane in a single-engine configuration while the airplane was operated within weight and balance limits.
- The left propeller retainer had been replaced by similar but not original equipment, using glue to ensure its tightness, which was non-compliant with the engine manufacturer’s procedures.
- The aircraft maintenance documents were not kept up to date by the operator.
- Poor flight preparation on the part of the pilot, who did not notice that the maintenance documents were not up to date.
- The operator was not compliant with the current Brazilian Civil Aviation Authority legislation.
Aftermath
The wreckage was located near the highway, and all five occupants were rescued with minor injuries. The investigation highlighted multiple issues related to maintenance practices and flight preparation.