What happened
On February 24, 2013, a Pilatus PC-6, registration PR-AJJ, was conducting a local skydiving operation departing from the National Parachuting Center (SDOI) in Boituva, Brazil. The aircraft was carrying one pilot and nine passengers. During the initial climb, upon reaching approximately 1,000 feet, the engine experienced a significant loss of power, which severely degraded the aircraft's performance.
Realizing that the remaining energy was insufficient to glide back to the runway threshold at SDOI, the pilot executed an emergency landing in a nearby plantation area. Following the landing, the pilot drained the fuel, refueled the aircraft with 40 liters of kerosene, and performed an engine check. After confirming the engine's operation, the pilot departed the plantation field and successfully returned to the airfield.
The investigation
The investigation was conducted by SERIPA IV. It was noted that the occurrence was reported by a third party three days after the event, which resulted in the loss of certain perishable evidence and essential investigative data. The investigation confirmed that the pilot held valid medical and technical certifications and possessed sufficient experience for the flight. Additionally, the aircraft held a valid airworthiness certificate and was within weight and balance limits at the time of the incident. No damage to the aircraft was identified following the landing, and all 10 occupants remained uninjured.
Findings
- The engine suffered a sharp reduction in power during the climb phase.
- The pilot performed an emergency landing in an unprepared field due to the inability to reach the runway.
- The pilot's decision to depart from the plantation field after refueling exposed the aircraft to unnecessary risks.