What happened
On January 12, 1998, an EMB-720C, registration PT-EDW, departed from Rondonópolis, Mato Grosso, bound for Goiatuba, Goiás. The flight was being conducted under Visual Flight Rules (VFR) and carried one passenger. Approximately 30 minutes into the flight, the aircraft encountered severe meteorological formations.
During the encounter, the aircraft suffered a structural failure where the wings and vertical stabilizer detached in flight. The aircraft subsequently entered a steep dive and collided violently with the ground at Fazenda São Roque, near Alto Garças. The impact caused a post-crash fire fueled by engine oil, resulting in two fatalities (the pilot and one passenger) and the total destruction of the aircraft.
The investigation
CENIPA investigators examined the wreckage and determined that there were no indications of mechanical failure; the left wing contained fuel and the engine had sufficient oil. The investigation focused on the operational and human factors surrounding the flight.
Evidence suggested that the flight preparation was rushed, and the pilot failed to collect meteorological data for the intended route. While the pilot held a Private Pilot license, they lacked the necessary instrument rating required to navigate the weather conditions encountered. Analysis of the debris indicated that the loss of aerodynamic components was likely caused by excessive G-loads or excessive airspeed while maneuvering within the severe weather formation.
Findings
- Deficient Judgment: The pilot inadequately assessed the risks of the flight, attempting to proceed through adverse weather without the necessary skills.
- Spatial Disorientation: The combination of entering instrument conditions without qualification and the presence of turbulence likely led to spatial disorientation.
- Inadequate Planning: The flight was prepared hastily, without checking route weather or establishing adequate alternatives.
- Environmental Factors: Severe turbulence and pressure variations within the weather formation contributed to the loss of control and structural failure.