What happened
On May 17, 2018, an Air Tractor AT-502B, registration PR-FDM, was performing agricultural spraying operations over a cotton field at Fazenda Monte Carmelo in Iraí de Minas, Minas Gerais. During the application process, the aircraft's vertical stabilizer collided with high-voltage power lines located at the edge of the application area. The cables were positioned between 8 and 10 meters above the ground.
Following the impact, the pilot maintained control of the aircraft and proceeded to the operator's base at the Nova Ponte Aerodrome (SSYD). The aircraft sustained minor damage, and the pilot emerged uninjured.
The investigation
CENIPA's investigation established that the pilot was fully qualified, holding valid commercial licenses and medical certification. The aircraft was also in compliance with airworthiness requirements and was operating within weight and balance limits. Meteorological conditions were favorable for visual flight.
The investigation focused on the pilot's decision to fly beneath the power lines, a maneuver the pilot admitted to performing frequently to increase efficiency. The pilot stated that on this specific occasion, they "miscalculated" the altitude, passing slightly too high, which led to the vertical stabilizer striking the cables. The investigation noted that the thin wires provided poor visual contrast, making them difficult to detect.
Furthermore, the investigation examined the operator's safety management. While the company had implemented various safety measures, the investigation found that the specific operational risk management (GRSO) records for the area being sprayed were not presented. This lack of documentation suggested potential deficiencies in flight planning regarding the identification of obstacles.
Findings
- Pilot judgment: The pilot's decision to fly under the wires and the miscalculation of clearance altitude.
- Flight planning: Inadequate assessment of artificial obstacles within the operational area.
- Management supervision: Deficiencies in the oversight of risk management documentation and operational planning.