What happened
On September 16, 2013, an Embraer EMB-810D, registration PP-EPA, was performing a ferry flight from Belo Horizonte (SBBH) to Conselheiro Lafaiete (SNKF), Minas Gerais. The aircraft was operated by the Minas Gerais State Secretariat of Agriculture, Livestock, and Supply.
During the landing phase, the second pilot in command was flying the aircraft. Wind indicators at the airfield showed a left crosswind of approximately 8 to 12 knots. As the aircraft was on final approach, the wind caused the plane to drift to the right, resulting in the left wing lifting. In an attempt to correct the drift, the pilot applied left aileron and rudder; however, this input caused the nose of the aircraft to dip. While the aircraft began to move back toward the centerline, it entered a porpoising motion. This maneuver caused the left propeller blades to strike the runway surface.
Following the impact, the other pilot in the cockpit took control of the aircraft to stabilize the situation. Both occupants of the aircraft were uninjured, though the aircraft sustained damage to the left propeller.
The investigation
CENIPA's investigation confirmed that the pilots held valid medical and technical certificates, and the aircraft held a valid airworthiness certificate. The aircraft was within weight and balance limits at the time of the event. However, investigators noted that the maintenance logs for the airframe, engine, and propeller were not up to date. The investigation also noted that the incident was reported to authorities 16 days after it occurred, which deviates from the required reporting timelines established by the Brazilian Aeronautical Code.
Findings
- Improper application of flight controls during the landing flare.
- Presence of a left crosswind of 8 to 12 knots causing lateral drift.
- Occurrence of a porpoising motion following corrective control inputs.
- Incomplete maintenance documentation regarding the aircraft's engine, propeller, and airframe logs.