What happened
On June 10, 2021, at approximately 20:02 UTC, an Embraer EMB-500 (registration PR-ARR) was performing a private passenger flight from Assis, SP, to Congonhas Airport (SBSP) in São Paulo. The aircraft was executing an RNP approach for runway 35R.
During the approach, the pilot maintained contact with São Paulo Approach and subsequently contacted the Tower. The Tower controller provided the altimeter setting, informed the pilot of the runway conditions (wet), and explicitly authorized the landing on runway 35R. The pilot acknowledged the instruction for runway 35R. However, during the final stages of the approach, the aircraft drifted from the intended centerline. The pilot later reported that the aircraft's lateral deviation was influenced by a crosswind and that the lights for runway 35R were difficult to see. Ultimately, the aircraft landed on runway 35L instead of the authorized 35R. There were no injuries to the two occupants, and the aircraft sustained no damage.
The investigation
CENIPA's investigation confirmed that the pilot was fully qualified, holding valid instrument and type ratings for the EMB-500, and possessed a valid medical certificate. The aircraft was airworthy, with all maintenance records up to date and operating within weight and balance limits.
Analysis of the Cockpit Voice and Data Recorder (CVDR) revealed that while the pilot initially engaged the autopilot, the aircraft experienced a lateral deviation of 6 to 8 degrees at an altitude of 3,150 feet, caused by a 15-knot crosswind. The investigation also noted that the aircraft was slightly below the ideal glidepath due to descent rates exceeding recommendations. While the pilot attempted to correct the deviation, the maneuver was not successful in maintaining the 35R centerline. The investigation found no evidence of mechanical failure or significant meteorological impediments, as visibility was 8,000 meters.
Findings
- Lack of attention and a reduction in situational awareness contributed to the error.
- Overconfidence and familiarity with the airport may have led to a reduction in the pilot's alert system.
- Navigation deviation occurred during the final approach phase.
- Decision-making and perception errors regarding the active runway led to the landing on the unauthorized runway.