What happened
On September 9, 2009, an EMB-810C, registration PT-RBK, operated by Amazonaves Táxi Aéreo Ltda, departed from the Maués aerodrome (SWMW) in Amazonas, Brazil, for a mail transport flight to Parintins. Shortly after takeoff, once the landing gear and flaps had been retracted, the left engine suddenly lost power.
In response to the loss of thrust, the pilot performed a right-hand turn to return to the runway, attempting to land in the opposite direction of takeoff to avoid the Maués-Açu River. During the emergency, the pilot attempted to restore power by activating the auxiliary fuel pump, but without success. As the aircraft approached the runway, the pilot deployed the flaps and landing gear; however, the gear had not yet locked into position when the aircraft touched down. The aircraft landed with the gear retracted, causing both propellers to strike the ground. The aircraft slid approximately 230 meters, sustaining damage to the propellers, engines, and the lower fuselage. The pilot was uninjured.
The investigation
The investigation conducted by SERIPA VII examined the mechanical condition of the aircraft and the pilot's performance. Post-incident bench tests were performed on the left engine's mechanical fuel pump, magnetos, propeller governor, and the propeller and hub assembly. These tests revealed no technical malfunctions, and investigators were unable to establish a definitive technical cause for the initial loss of power.
Investigators also reviewed the operator's organizational context, noting a history of incidents related to operational supervision and pilot training. The investigation highlighted that the pilot, while qualified, had previously demonstrated difficulties with checklist adaptation and emergency procedures during training. Furthermore, the investigation noted that the pilot's decision to turn back to the runway deviated from the manufacturer's operating manual, which instructed the pilot to maintain directional control and accelerate to 89 knots to continue a single-engine climb.
Findings
- Improper decision-making regarding the emergency procedure.
- Deficiencies in the pilot's training, qualification, and competency in managing in-flight emergencies.
- Errors in piloting judgment and command application during the critical phase of flight.