No fatalities

Cargo Flight Crashes Near Motorway After Engine Failure (PT-OHA)

João Pessoa, BrazilTakeoff (climb)

On December 8, 1999, a Cessna 208A Caravan (registration PT-OHA) operated by TAF Linhas Aéreas - Taxi Aéreo Fortaleza was involved in an aviation accident near João Pessoa, Brazil during takeoff. No fatalities were reported. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: Engine failure due to poor maintenance. Contributing factors: maintenance procedures not followed by the operator mechanics, poor crew coordination, lack of crew training. This summary draws on records from the Bureau of Aircraft Accidents Archives (B3A); 1 related events involving the same aircraft type or operator are linked below.

Sourcesthe Bureau of Aircraft Accidents Archives (B3A)Primary report: the Brazilian Aeronautical Accident Investigation and Prevention Center (CENIPA)Updated 2026-07-04Data APIEditorial standards

A cargo flight from João Pessoa to Recife reported engine problems shortly after takeoff, attempted to return, but crashed near a motorway. Both pilots were injured and the aircraft was destroyed.

Incident Overview

Minutes after departing from João Pessoa-Presidente Castro Pinto Airport on a cargo flight to Recife, the flight crew reported engine problems and decided to return to the airport. The aircraft was unable to maintain a safe altitude, prompting the crew to attempt an emergency landing. During the landing attempt, the aircraft struck trees and crashed near a motorway. Both pilots sustained injuries, and the aircraft was damaged beyond repair.

Probable Cause

The official investigation determined the probable cause of the accident to be engine failure due to poor maintenance. Contributing factors included maintenance procedures not being followed by the operator's mechanics, poor crew coordination, and lack of crew training.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 8 Dec 1999 Cessna 208A Caravan accident near João Pessoa, Brazil?

A cargo flight from João Pessoa to Recife reported engine problems shortly after takeoff, attempted to return, but crashed near a motorway. Both pilots were injured and the aircraft was destroyed.

Were there any fatalities in the 8 Dec 1999 Cessna 208A Caravan accident?

No fatalities were recorded in this accident.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 8 Dec 1999 involved a Cessna 208A Caravan, registration PT-OHA, operated by TAF Linhas Aéreas - Taxi Aéreo Fortaleza, at João Pessoa, Brazil.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

Engine failure due to poor maintenance. Contributing factors: maintenance procedures not followed by the operator mechanics, poor crew coordination, lack of crew training.