What happened
On January 4, 2018, a Beechcraft C90, registration PP-SCF, departed Rio de Janeiro's Galeão International Airport (SBGL) for a private ferry flight to Sorocaba. Shortly after takeoff, the aircraft suffered a total electrical system failure, resulting in a complete loss of communication with air traffic control.
The pilot in command (PIC) responded by setting the transponder to code 7/600 and performing orbits over Guanabara Bay to attempt an emergency landing back at SBGL. Because the electrical failure prevented the crew from verifying the landing gear position via cockpit lights, the pilot attempted to extend the gear using the emergency manual pump system.
Upon landing on runway 15, the landing gear—which was extended but not mechanically locked—retracted after the aircraft touched the ground and traveled several meters. The aircraft's fuselage dragged along the runway, resulting in light damage to the aircraft. Both occupants of the aircraft emerged uninjured.
The investigation
CENIPA investigators examined the aircraft's electrical components and found that both generators were malfunctioning. The generators showed signs of overheating, including damage to the armature vanes, short circuits in the collector, and excessive soot. Investigators noted that the generators were not providing a charge to the battery, meaning the aircraft had been operating solely on battery power since takeoff, which severely limited its endurance.
The investigation also reviewed the crew's performance and cockpit management. While the pilot was fully qualified, the second in command (SIC) was flying with an expired multi-engine rating. Investigators also noted that the crew failed to use the official checklist during the emergency procedures to ensure the gear was properly locked.
Findings
- The primary cause of the electrical failure was the malfunction of both generators, which failed to charge the aircraft battery.
- Ineffective use of cockpit resources and poor crew coordination contributed to the incident.
- The pilot failed to strictly follow the aircraft checklist when configuring the landing gear for landing.
- The landing gear was extended but not mechanically locked, allowing it to retract upon ground contact.