What happened
On February 1, 1999, at approximately 21:30 local time, an EMB 810 (registration PT-EQZ) was performing a night flight from Brasília to Goiânia. The aircraft was operating under instrument flight rules (IFR) and carrying a pilot and three passengers.
As the aircraft approached Santa Genoveva Airport (SBGO), the pilot transitioned to visual flight rules (VFR) due to favorable weather conditions. The pilot reported being on the left base leg for runway 14, confirmed the landing gear was down and locked, and acknowledged instructions from the tower. However, after confirming the aircraft was turning base, no further radio contact was established.
Shortly after, the tower controller observed an explosion near the airport. The aircraft had struck trees and wires before impacting a residential area, crashing into two houses and a vehicle. The impact and subsequent fire caused the total loss of the aircraft. All four occupants—the pilot and three passengers—perceptibly died at the scene.
The investigation
CENIPA investigators examined the wreckage and engine components to determine the cause of the descent. Technical analysis of the engines and propellers showed no evidence of mechanical failure; the engines were operational, and the propellers were in a flight-ready condition. The investigation also ruled out flight control jams, as the elevator and rudder trim were found in the neutral position.
Investigators explored several hypotheses, including spatial disorientation and pilot incapacitation. While the pilot was experienced, the investigation noted that the aircraft was being operated by a single pilot, which was a violation of RBHA 135 regulations for this type of IFR operation. Furthermore, one passenger was found to have been unbelted at the time of impact.
Findings
- The aircraft was operating with a single pilot, violating regulations that required a co-pilot for this type of flight.
- There was no evidence of engine failure or mechanical malfunction prior to the crash.
- The pilot's final actions, including holding the microphone in an unusual position, suggested a possible sudden medical event or severe spatial disorientation.
- Organizational factors, including potential pressure to operate with reduced crew and a lack of adequate supervision, were identified as contributing elements.