What happened
On May 29, 2003, an EMB 710C, registration PT-NMF, departed Laranjal do Jarí, AP, bound for a mining site known as Garimpo 2002 in Monte Dourado, PA. The aircraft was operated for cargo purposes with the pilot alone on board. Upon arrival, the pilot encountered critical weather conditions characterized by heavy rain and low cloud ceilings.
During the landing sequence, the pilot performed three low passes over the landing area in an attempt to assess the conditions. During the final missed approach, the aircraft struck the treetops with its wingtip and subsequently collided with mountainous terrain approximately 1,300 meters ahead of the landing area. The impact resulted in the fatal injury of the pilot and the total destruction of the aircraft.
The investigation
CENIPA investigators faced significant challenges due to the accident site being located in a remote, densely forested area of the Amazon jungle with difficult access. The investigation relied on official documentation, meteorological reports, and statements from the aircraft owner.
Meteorological data from the time confirmed that the area was experiencing Instrument Meteorological Conditions (IMC), with heavy rain and low-altitude cloud layers (TCU and stratus cumulus) that made visual flight impossible. While the aircraft's airworthiness certificate was valid, the maintenance logs and specific recent inspection records were lost at the crash site. Investigators noted that the engine appeared to be at full power at the moment of impact. The pilot held a valid commercial pilot license for single-engine land aircraft but lacked the necessary IFR (Instrument Flight Rules) rating.
Findings
- Adverse Weather Conditions: The presence of heavy rain and low ceilings made VFR (Visual Flight Rules) operations impossible.
- Flight Indiscipline: The pilot operated the aircraft in IMC without the required IFR qualification, violating air traffic rules.
- Deficient Decision Making: The pilot's planning and judgment were flawed, as the flight was undertaken despite known risks and the lack of appropriate instrumentation qualification.
- Potential Human Factors: Excessive motivation or anxiety may have influenced the pilot's decision to proceed despite the weather. Additionally, the aircraft owner's supervision was noted as potentially deficient for allowing flight under such marginal conditions.
- Operational Environment: The use of an unregulated landing strip in a remote region further compromised operational safety.