What happened
On February 17, 1996, at approximately 14:40 local time, a Cessna 310 R, registration PT-KPT, was returning from Cabo Frio, RJ, to Belo Horizonte, MG. The aircraft, operated by Expresso Transamazonas S.A., was flying under visual flight rules (VFR) and was empty of passengers at the time of the accident.
While flying at a very low altitude near the Bairro Belvedere neighborhood, the aircraft struck a metal pole supporting a television antenna on a residence. The impact destroyed approximately 60% of the right wing, causing the aircraft to roll violently to the right. Approximately 150 meters after the initial impact, the aircraft struck the wall of a shopping center and the ground at an indicated airspeed of 1/80 knots. The impact caused the aircraft to flip onto its back, and a post-crash fire ensued. The pilot sustained fatal injuries at the scene, and the aircraft was a total loss.
The investigation
CENIPA's investigation focused on the pilot's flight conduct and the circumstances leading to the collision. Investigators confirmed that the aircraft was in airworthy condition, with all maintenance inspections up to date, and was within weight and center-of-gravity limits. Meteorological conditions were favorable, with visibility exceeding 10 km.
The investigation examined the pilot's operational habits, noting a pattern of low-altitude flying over his own neighborhood to announce his arrival by varying engine power. Evidence showed the pilot was using a cellular phone during the flight; specifically, seven telephone calls were made to the cockpit shortly before the accident. Investigators also analyzed the pilot's psychological state, noting that the presence of family members at his home provided a motivation for the risky maneuver.
Findings
- Psychological factors: The pilot's decision to perform low-altitude maneuvers was driven by a desire to impress his wife and nephews, who were at his residence. This exhibitionist behavior significantly influenced the flight path.
- Flight indiscipline: The pilot intentionally flew below the minimum safety altitude, violating air traffic regulations.
- Impaired judgment: The pilot failed to maintain adequate obstacle clearance, likely due to a combination of high speed, low altitude, and distraction caused by cellular phone use.
- Operational deviations: The pilot had developed dangerous habits, including using a mobile phone while operating the controls and performing unauthorized low-level maneuvers over populated areas.