What happened
On November 9, 2000, a 396 HS helicopter, registration PT-HHF, was performing agricultural spraying operations over banana plantations in São Vicente Férrer, Pernambuco. During the fifth procedure of the mission, the pilot encountered three low-voltage power lines. In an attempt to maneuver underneath the wires to avoid them, the aircraft struck the lines, causing a loud noise and intense vibration.
The impact caused the aircraft to lose its tail cone, rendering the helicopter uncontrollable. The aircraft entered a vertical descent, spinning approximately 30 meters before impacting the ground at a nearly 70-degree angle. Upon impact, the fuel tanks ruptured, and the resulting fire, fueled by engine oil and agricultural chemicals, completely destroyed the aircraft. The pilot managed to escape the wreckage uninjured.
The investigation
CENIPA's investigation focused on the operational environment and the pilot's decision-making. The investigation established that the terrain was highly irregular, which hindered the visibility of obstacles. While the pilot was highly experienced, the investigation found that no reconnaissance flights had been conducted for the specific area being sprayed.
Furthermore, the investigation noted that the pilot was not wearing prescribed corrective lenses, despite a recent medical recommendation for hyperopia and presbyopia. The investigation also examined the organizational role of the operator, Aviação Agrícola Recreio, noting that the aircraft was not equipped with a wire-cutter kit, an essential safety feature for low-altitude agricultural operations.