What happened
On August 13, 2001, a Cessna 208B Caravan, registration PT-OTM, was performing a cargo transport flight from Mundico Coelho to Fazenda Conforto in the state of Pará. The aircraft was operated by Penta – Pena Transportes Aéreos S.A. and was being piloted by a single crew member.
Shortly after departing from the Fazenda Conforto landing strip, the aircraft reached an altitude of approximately 80 feet when the engine failed. The pilot executed a right-hand turn with a slight bank to facilitate an emergency landing in a nearby lake. The water landing was successful, and the pilot was able to exit the aircraft through the cargo door and swim to the shore. However, approximately five minutes after the impact, the aircraft sank, leaving only the tip of the right wing and portions of the stabilizers visible above the water.
The investigation
CENIPA investigators examined the circumstances surrounding the engine failure. Because the aircraft was submerged, a direct mechanical examination of the engine was not possible. The investigation considered two primary hypotheses: a mechanical failure or fuel exhaustion.
Maintenance records for PT-OTM were found to be up to date, with recent inspections and periodic services performed correctly, making a mechanical failure less likely. The investigation focused on the possibility of insufficient fuel. It was noted that refueling only occurred at Mundico Coelho, and the pilot was responsible for managing the fuel requirements for multiple flight legs. The investigation explored whether an error in flight planning, a miscalculation of fuel needs, or an incorrect reading of the fuel gauges led to the engine flameout.
Findings
- The pilot was fully qualified, experienced, and held valid instrument ratings.
- Maintenance for the aircraft and its Pratt & Whitney PT6A engine was documented as adequate and periodic.
- The most probable cause of the engine failure was insufficient fuel resulting from deficient flight planning or an error in monitoring fuel levels during refueling.
- The pilot's decision to land in the lake was appropriate for the circumstances, preventing further injury.
Safety action
Following the investigation, the operator was directed to implement operational standards requiring pilots to personally verify all refueling processes. The company was also instructed to emphasize the importance of flight planning and fuel monitoring to all crew members.