What happened
On April 27, 1998, at approximately 7:10 PM, an EMB-810C operated by Salt Jad Táxi Aéreo Ltda. crashed into the Serra Quebra Cangalha in Lagoinha, São Paulo. The flight originated from Jundiaí, SP, with the mission of transporting bank mail to Guaratinguetá, SP.
During the flight, the pilot contacted São José dos Campos Air Traffic Control to cancel the previously filed instrument flight rules (IFR) flight plan, stating the intention to proceed under visual flight rules (VFR). After informing the Guaratinguetá Tower that the aircraft was crossing 5,000 feet in visual conditions and descending to traffic altitude, all communication with the aircraft ceased. The aircraft was later discovered at approximately 4,800 feet, having struck trees in the mountainous region. The impact resulted in one fatality and the total loss of the aircraft.
The investigation
CENIPA investigators established that the aircraft's engines and propellers were operating normally at the time of the accident. The aircraft, registered as PT-ELD, was well-maintained, with all inspections and airworthiness certificates up to date. The investigation found that the aircraft was configured for landing, with the landing gear extended, and was in a high-rate descent, dropping from 7,000 feet to 5,500 feet in just 30 seconds.
While the destination airport was operating under visual conditions, investigators noted that other aircraft in the area reported cloud layers that prevented visual approaches in that specific sector. Additionally, a 21-knot crosswind from the left was present, which likely pushed the aircraft toward the terrain.
Findings
- The pilot likely began the descent while flying at the top of a cloud layer, believing they would quickly regain visual references.
- The pilot reported operating under VFR conditions despite the presence of cloud layers that necessitated IFR procedures.
- A high-rate descent and the presence of a significant crosswind caused the aircraft to drift into the Serra Quebra Cangalha terrain.
- There was evidence of potential flight indiscipline regarding the decision to descend without visual contact with the ground.
- The pilot's judgment regarding the thickness of the cloud layer and the impact of the wind was a critical factor in the collision.