What happened
On November 30, 1992, an AB-115 Aeroboero, registration PP-FKK, departed from Bacacheri Airport (SBBI) on a training flight destined for Paranaguá Airport (SBPG). The flight was delayed because the student pilot was undergoing a medical examination, resulting in a departure time close to sunset.
During the flight, the pilot contacted Curitiba Control, stating the aircraft was operating under visual flight rules (VFR). However, the controller warned the pilot that radio contact would be lost after passing Pico do Marumbi due to terrain. Shortly after, the aircraft disappeared from radar. Following a report from the pilot's family, search operations were launched, and the wreckage was located on December 2, 1992, near Morro dos Macacos.
Both the instructor and the student pilot sustained fatal injuries at the scene. The aircraft was a total loss.
The investigation
CENIPA investigators examined the wreckage and determined that the engine was functioning normally at the time of impact, as indicated by the tachometer reading approximately 2,650 RPM and the linear distribution of the debris. The investigation focused on the meteorological conditions and the pilot's decision-making process.
Meteorological data revealed that a SIGMET had been issued, warning of heavy weather formations in the region. Radar from Curitiba Control also showed significant weather activity near the Serra do Mar mountains. The investigation also noted that the aircraft was not certified for instrument flight rules (IFR) and the instructor was not instrument-rated.
Findings
- Adverse weather conditions: The aircraft encountered heavy weather formations and severe turbulence while attempting to traverse the mountains.
- Deficient judgment: The instructor proceeded with the flight despite available information, such as SIGMET 07, which indicated unfavorable conditions.
- Deficient planning: The flight was planned with a departure time too close to sunset, leaving no margin for deviations or the use of alternative airports.
- Spatial disorientation: The attempt to maintain VFR conditions within IFR weather likely led to the loss of control and subsequent collision with the terrain.