What happened
On July 10, 2021, a Textron Aviation B200GT, registration PP-BLK, was performing a private flight from Belo Horizonte (SBBH) to Porto Seguro (SBTV). The flight was operated by A.R.G.S.A. with two qualified pilots on board.
While established on the final approach for runway 33 under visual flight rules (VFR), the aircraft encountered an area of atmospheric instability. At approximately 600 feet above ground level (AGL), the crew experienced a sudden and unintended increase in the rate of descent. In response, the pilot applied maximum power to execute a go-around. During the maneuver, the crew retracted the landing gear; however, the aircraft subsequently encountered a wind gust that caused a further loss of altitude. The aircraft struck the runway surface, resulting in the propeller tips and flaps making contact with the ground. The crew continued the go-around and landed successfully on a subsequent attempt, only discovering the damage during post-flight inspections.
The investigation
CENIPA investigators examined the aircraft's maintenance records, finding that the airworthiness certificate and all engine and propeller logs were up to date. The pilots were found to be fully qualified with valid medical certificates and appropriate type ratings.
Investigators analyzed the Cockpit Voice Recorder (CVR), but discovered that although the equipment was functional, the audio from the specific flight was not recorded. Meteorological analysis of the region showed that while there were no significant widespread weather degradations, considerable variations in wind direction—common in coastal areas due to sea-land pressure gradients—were present. While the pilot reported encountering wind gusts, investigators could not definitively confirm the presence of windshear at the exact moment of the incident.
Findings
- Adverse meteorological conditions contributed to the encounter with instability and the subsequent loss of altitude.
- The investigation could not determine if the pilot's decision-making regarding the timing of the landing gear retraction contributed to the aircraft striking the ground.
- The aircraft sustained light damage to the propeller tips and flaps, while both crew members remained uninjured.