Pilot Fatality in Nighttime Approach to Unregistered Strip in Mato Grosso

Casualties unknown • ALTO GARÇAS, MT, BR

A Beechcraft BE-58TC crashed during a night approach at an unregistered landing strip in Alto Garças, Brazil, resulting in the pilot's death.

What happened

On March 17, 1997, at approximately 18:23, a BE-58TC, registration PT-LTZ, crashed while attempting to land at Fazenda Adriana, located in Alto Garças, Mato Grosso. The flight originated from Rondonópolis, with an initial departure scheduled for 16:15. However, due to a 40-minute delay caused by a social encounter prior to takeoff, the aircraft arrived at its destination after sunset.

During the landing pattern, the pilot attempted a left-hand approach to an unregistered and unlit dirt runway. While executing the turn to align with the final approach, the aircraft lost control and struck the ground with the left wingtip. The impact triggered an explosion, which, combined with the release of fuel, resulted in the total destruction of the aircraft and the death of the pilot.

Probable cause

The accident was caused by spatial disorientation during a night approach to an unlit, unregistered runway, exacerbated by inadequate flight planning regarding sunset timing and the use of an unauthorized landing strip.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 1997-03-17 aircraft accident near ALTO GARÇAS, MT, BR?

A Beechcraft BE-58TC crashed during a night approach at an unregistered landing strip in Alto Garças, Brazil, resulting in the pilot's death.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 1997-03-17 involved a aircraft, registration PTLTZ, at ALTO GARÇAS, MT, BR.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The accident was caused by spatial disorientation during a night approach to an unlit, unregistered runway, exacerbated by inadequate flight planning regarding sunset timing and the use of an unauthorized landing strip.

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