What happened
On September 28, 2012, an ATR-72-212A, registration PR-ATH, operated by Azul Linhas Aéreas Brasileiras SA, was performing a scheduled domestic flight from Campinas to Cascavel. During the initial approach to runway 33, the crew executed a go-around due to intense turbulence and strong crosswinds.
Upon attempting a second approach, the aircraft touched down on the runway centerline. However, during the deceleration roll, the aircraft drifted toward the left edge of the runway. In an attempt to correct the deviation and avoid hitting a concrete box located on the runway shoulder, the crew applied maximum control deflection. This corrective maneuver caused the aircraft to swing to the right side, crossing the runway boundary and traveling over unfinished asphalt from ongoing runway widening works. The aircraft sustained minor damage to the landing gear fairing, but all 49 passengers and 4 crew members escaped without injury.
The investigation
The CENIPA investigation focused on the flight data, cockpit voice recordings, and meteorological conditions at the time of the incident. Investigators analyzed the Digital Flight Data Recorder (DFDR), which revealed a momentary left-wing command at approximately 100 knots, suggesting a control input that contradicted the recommended technique for the prevailing wind direction. The investigation also examined the airport infrastructure, noting that the runway was undergoing expansion, and reviewed the crew's decision-making process regarding the use of an alternate airport despite reported crosswinds exceeding company limits.
Findings
- Pilot judgment: The crew elected to proceed with two visual approaches despite receiving reports of crosswinds exceeding 25 knots, which was the limit established in the operator's General Operations Manual (MGO), and failed to effectively consider diverting to an alternate airport.
- Infrastructure: The presence of a concrete obstacle on the runway shoulder contributed to the event, as the crew's urgent maneuver to avoid it led to the excursion on the opposite side.
- Control inputs: A momentary left-wing command was recorded during the high-speed portion of the landing roll, which may have contributed to the loss of directional control.
- Meteorological conditions: Strong crosswinds and potential gusts were present, though it could not be definitively determined if a gust exceeded the manufacturer's maximum limits.