What happened
On April 16, 2013, a Cessna 208B, registration PR-CFJ, was performing a chartered flight from JundiaI, SP, to Curitiba, PR. During the final approach for the ILS X procedure to runway 15 at Afonso Pena Airport (SBCT), the crew experienced a sudden noise during the power reduction and flare phases. After the engines were shut down, the crew was informed by the airport operator that the aircraft had struck several lamps of the Approach Light System (ALS) located before the runway threshold.
The aircraft sustained light damage to the fuselage and the left landing gear fairing, while several ALS lamps were destroyed. The two crew members were unharmed.
The investigation
CENIPA's investigation focused on the crew's decision to execute an ILS X (CAT II) approach despite the fact that neither the aircraft nor the pilots were certified or equipped for Category II operations. While the crew had access to compatible CAT I procedures (ILS W or Z) which allowed for lower visibility and ceiling minimums, they chose to proceed with the higher-category procedure.
Investigators found that meteorological conditions at the destination were deteriorating rapidly due to fog, with the ceiling dropping to approximately 200 feet and visibility becoming extremely restricted. Although the crew maintained visual contact with the ground until shortly before touchdown, this visual reference led to an inadequate assessment of the risks, causing them to descend below the ideal glidepath and strike the approach lights.
Findings
- Flight indiscipline: The crew performed an approach procedure (ILS X/CAT II) for which the aircraft and pilots were not authorized.
- Inadequate decision-making: The crew failed to execute a missed approach or divert to an alternate airport despite having sufficient fuel and worsening weather.
- Improper pilot judgment: Maintaining visual contact with the ground induced the crew to believe they were aligned with the runway threshold, leading them to descend below the prescribed glidepath.
- Adverse weather: Rapidly degrading visibility and low ceilings due to fog hindered the crew's perception of obstacles and contributed to the collision.
Safety action
CENIPA issued safety recommendations to the National Civil Aviation Agency (ANAC) to:
- Coordinate with the operator, Vera Cruz Táxi Aéreo Ltda., to reinforce strict compliance with the General Operations Manual (MGO) and regulatory standards among all crew members.
- Ensure the operator establishes explicit management policies prohibiting the execution of flight procedures for which the crew is not qualified or the aircraft is not certified.