What happened
On August 21, 2004, at approximately 16:45, a P56C-1 aircraft, registration PP-HLV, was performing a flight instructor check-ride at the Bragança Paulista Aerodrome in São Paulo, Brazil. The flight was operated by Aeroclube de Bragança Paulista.
During the takeoff roll, the pilot attempted to clear the runway quickly to accommodate an aircraft on final approach. Witnesses observed the aircraft performing a "three-point" takeoff rather than the standard procedure of lifting the tail during the roll. As the aircraft reached approximately 40 mph, it departed the ground at a high angle of attack and low airspeed. The pilot reported attempting to pitch the nose down, but the aircraft instead entered a state of wing rock and began to stall.
As the aircraft lost control, the checker attempted to intervene by reducing engine power, but the pilot countered this by increasing power to maximum. This lack of coordination led to a loss of directional control, causing the aircraft to veer right and strike the ground. The impact sequence involved the right wing, the propeller, the left wing, and the tail, resulting in severe damage to the airframe, engine, and propeller. Both crew members sustained minor injuries.
The investigation
CENIPA investigators examined the engine, carburetor, and magnetos, finding no mechanical failures that contributed to the accident. The engine components, including the valve train and crankshaft, were visually intact, and the fuel system was operational. Meteorological conditions were favorable, with light crosswinds.
The investigation focused on the human factors and operational procedures. Investigators found that the pilot's flight instructor rating was expired, though the purpose of the flight was to renew it. The investigation also highlighted a lack of effective cockpit coordination and an inadequate pre-flight briefing, which failed to establish clear roles for emergency procedures.