What happened
On September 6, 1982, an Embraer 721 Delta, registration PT-RJC, was operating a flight from Campinas to Caxambu. During the flight, the pilot encountered various weather formations that necessitated frequent deviations from the planned route. These deviations caused the pilot to become lost.
In an attempt to re-establish navigation to the intended destination, the pilot attempted an approach at Fazenda Irmãos Ribeiro. During the approach, the pilot was unable to execute the necessary corrections to align with the runway centerline. The pilot initiated a missed approach (go-around) with the flaps fully extended; however, the aircraft became uncontrollable during this maneuver. The pilot subsequently reduced engine power, resulting in an uncontrolled landing in an unprepared field near the runway. The aircraft was a total loss, and the occupants sustained serious injuries.
The investigation
The CENIPA investigation focused on the pilot's experience, flight planning, and the sequence of maneuvers during the approach. Investigators examined the pilot's flight records, noting a significant total flight time of approximately 1,000 hours, but a very limited experience specifically with the Embraer 721 Delta type. The investigation also looked into the impact of meteorological conditions and the adequacy of the flight plan in relation to the weather encountered.
Findings
- Insufficient flight experience: While the pilot was a qualified commercial pilot, they lacked sufficient experience in this specific aircraft type for the mission requirements.
- Deficient flight planning: The flight plan was poorly prepared, failing to account for adequate alternatives despite the presence of adverse weather.
- Operational errors: The pilot failed to execute correct landing maneuvers and lost control of the aircraft during both the initial approach and the subsequent missed approach.
- Navigational error: The pilot became lost due to the need for constant deviations caused by weather.
- Psychological factors: Although not fully researched, evidence suggested that the stress of being lost may have influenced the pilot's performance.