What happened
On June 18, 2011, an EMB-500, registration PP-IME, was performing a ferry flight from Vitória to Aracruz, Brazil, when it overran the runway at Aeródromo Primo Bitti (SIFV). The aircraft, operated by Imetame Metalmecânica Ltda., was carrying two pilots and one passenger.
During the landing phase, the runway surface was wet due to recent rainfall. The pilot initiated an approach to runway 25 but failed to follow a standard traffic pattern. The aircraft crossed the runway threshold at 50 feet AGL, which was above the ideal glide path, and at a speed of 103 knots, exceeding the reference landing speed (VREF) of 101 knots. The aircraft touched down 530 meters beyond the threshold. Consequently, the aircraft traveled the entire length of the runway, overran the opposite end, and came to a stop after striking a drainage ditch. The aircraft sustained light damage to the nose landing gear, but all occupants escaped without injury.
The investigation
CENIPA investigators analyzed flight data from the aircraft's Cockpit Voice and Data Recorder (CVDR), which revealed that the flight crew did not adhere to standard operating procedures. The investigation established that the aircraft was operating above its maximum landing weight, recorded at 4,507 kg against a limit of 4,430 kg.
Furthermore, the investigation found that the crew intentionally disregarded established meteorological minimums. The cloud ceiling at the destination was reported to be approximately 800 feet, which was below the required 1,500 feet for Visual Flight Rules (VFR) operations. The investigation also noted that the co-pilot was not qualified for this specific aircraft type, although the pilot in command was fully qualified.
Findings
- Improper flight controls: The crew failed to maintain the necessary parameters for a stabilized approach, specifically regarding touchdown point and reference speed.
- Adverse weather conditions: Low cloud ceilings prevented the execution of a standard traffic pattern and contributed to the unstabilized approach.
- Flight indiscipline: The pilot intentionally bypassed operational regulations regarding weather minimums and standard traffic patterns.
- Poor pilot judgment: The decision to proceed with a VFR approach in conditions below regulatory minimums led to the degradation of landing safety.
- Weight and environmental factors: The aircraft was operating above its maximum landing weight, and the wet runway surface further hindered braking effectiveness.