What happened
On July 18, 1995, at approximately 04:20, an Embraer EMB 820C, registration PT-EJW, operated by Sul América Táxi Aéreo LTDA, crashed near Canoas, Rio Grande do Sul, during a cargo flight from Guarulhos to Porto Alegre.
While executing an ILS approach to runway 10, the pilot reported an intention to execute a go-around after failing to reach visual conditions. During the missed approach, the aircraft performed a left-hand turn under IFR conditions at night. The aircraft subsequently struck the ground in a flooded area, resulting in the fatal deaths of both the pilot and the co-pilot. The aircraft was destroyed beyond repair.
The investigation
CENIPA's investigation focused on the flight's approach and the operational conditions of the carrier. Investigators examined the meteorological conditions, which included a ceiling of 300 feet and visibility of 2000 meters. The investigation also reviewed the aircraft's maintenance status, noting that the aircraft was 9 hours overdue for a 50-hour inspection.
Furthermore, the investigation looked into the operational management of the operator, noting a lack of oversight regarding cargo securing and pilot recruitment. The investigation also considered the possibility of spatial disorientation or a shift in cargo during the turn, as the newspaper cargo was likely not secured to the aircraft floor.