What happened
On August 18, 1996, an Enstrom 208 FX helicopter, registration PT-HXP, departed from the SPA-UNICORDIS helipad for a recreational flight. During the flight, the aircraft was observed performing low-altitude maneuvers over the Plano Piloto area of Brasília. Witnesses reported that the pilot landed the aircraft in a residential sector to attend to a mobile phone call, during which the pilot exited the aircraft while the rotors were still operating and a passenger remained on board.
Following this stop, the helicopter continued at a low altitude, performing lateral movements before striking a tree approximately 10 meters high. The aircraft then collided with an electrical power line at an altitude of about 7 meters, followed by a strike to the tail rotor against another tree. The sequence of impacts ended with the aircraft striking the ground, causing the fuselage to scrape the terrain. The impact resulted in the total loss of the aircraft and serious injuries to both the pilot and the passenger.
The investigation
CENIPA investigators examined the wreckage and the operational circumstances of the flight. Technical analysis of the engine oil showed normal parameters, and investigators refuted the passenger's claim of engine failure, finding the engine components to be in good condition. The investigation also focused on the pilot's qualifications and the operator's oversight.
Investigators found that the pilot lacked the specific technical qualification (EH-80) required for this aircraft type and was operating with an expired medical certificate. Furthermore, the investigation noted that the pilot had not filed a flight plan and had no contact with air traffic control. The investigation also highlighted that the aircraft owner/operator failed to cooperate with authorities by denying access to the wreckage and aircraft documentation after the initial response.
Findings
- Inexperience with aircraft type: The pilot lacked the necessary technical training for the Enstrom 208 FX, which requires specific manual control of rotor RPM via the collective lever.
- Improper flight maneuvers: The pilot intentionally performed low-altitude maneuvers in violation of established aviation regulations.
- Operational negligence: The pilot abandoned the running aircraft to use a mobile phone, leaving a passenger unattended.
- Deficient supervision: The operator hired a pilot who was not qualified for the specific equipment and possessed an expired medical certificate.
- Lack of flight planning: The flight was conducted without a flight plan or communication with air traffic control services.