What happened
On November 14, 1994, a Cessna TU-206G, registration PT-LSZ, was operating a visual flight rules (VFR) flight from Rio de Janeiro toward São Paulo. While flying between São José dos Campos and Angra dos Reis, the aircraft encountered deteriorating meteorological conditions characterized by heavy rain, cumulonimbus clouds, and fog that reduced visibility to 2,000 meters.
As the aircraft entered the mountainous terrain of the Serra do Mar, the pilot attempted to climb through the cloud layer to clear the natural obstacles. During this ascent, the aircraft entered instrument meteorological conditions (IMC) without a formal change in flight rules. The aircraft subsequently struck trees and collided with the terrain while in a left-banked, nose-up attitude. The impact resulted in the total loss of the aircraft. The two crew members sustained light injuries, while one passenger sustained serious injuries and passed away the following day due to polytrauma.
The investigation
CENIPA's investigation focused on the operational decisions made by the crew and the environmental conditions at the time of the accident. Investigators examined the flight planning, which had been conducted under VFR assumptions despite unfavorable weather forecasts along the route.
The investigation also reviewed the crew's coordination, noting that the pilot had hired a more experienced co-pilot specifically to assist with navigating the unfamiliar region. While the co-pilot advised against the climb through the clouds, the commander proceeded with the maneuver. Furthermore, the investigation noted that the passenger was not wearing a seatbelt, which likely contributed to the severity of her injuries.