What happened
On August 7, 2003, an EMB 810D, registration PT-VOU, departed from Jundiaí (SDJD) bound for Sorocaba (SDCO) to perform scheduled maintenance. The flight was conducted under Visual Flight Rules (VFR) without a filed flight plan. At the time of departure, a frontal system was moving through the region, bringing heavy fog and low ceilings.
Witnesses observed the aircraft flying at a very low altitude, appearing to navigate along the road between Jundiaí and Itu. The pilot was attempting to stay below the cloud layer to maintain visual conditions. During the flight, the pilot decided to return to Jundiaí. While navigating the mountainous terrain of Serra do Japi, the aircraft struck trees at an altitude of approximately 8 meters before impacting the ground in an inverted position. The impact was so violent that the single fatality was the pilot.
The investigation
CENIPA's investigation established that the aircraft's engines were operating normally at the time of impact and there were no signs of mechanical failure. The aircraft's maintenance records were up to date, and the pilot was highly experienced, holding a valid Commercial Pilot license with IFR ratings.
Investigators found that the pilot had been advised by a maintenance professional in Sorocaba not to proceed with the flight due to the weather, yet chose to depart under VFR. The investigation also noted that the aircraft's landing gear was extended and locked at the time of the crash. The investigation focused on the pilot's decision-making process regarding weather and terrain navigation in marginal conditions.
Findings
- Improper flight planning: The pilot initiated a VFR flight despite knowing that weather conditions at the origin, along the route, and at the destination were below VFR minimums.
- Poor judgment: Instead of climbing to a safe altitude to fly under IFR rules toward an alternative airport like Campinas (SBKP), the pilot attempted to stay at a low altitude to maintain visual contact with the ground.
- Adverse weather: Heavy fog caused by a frontal system significantly restricted visibility and obscured the mountain peaks.
- Operational non-compliance: The pilot's decision to fly VFR in these conditions violated established aeronautical regulations (ICA 100-12).
- Human factors: The pilot's high level of experience and autonomy, combined with a lack of direct supervision, may have led to excessive self-confidence and increased impulsivity in taking risks.