What happened
On January 4, 2003, a Cessna C-512 operated by JS Táxi Aéreo Ltda was on approach to Congonhas Airport (SBSP) from Morrinhos, GO. The weather at the destination was characterized by rain, resulting in a wet runway. During the final approach, the aircraft was flying above the recommended glide slope and at a speed 15 knots higher than prescribed.
The aircraft touched down approximately 640 meters from the threshold of runway 35L. Due to the high speed and the wet surface, the aircraft experienced hydroplaning. The pilot, perceiving a loss of braking effectiveness, mistakenly believed the brakes had failed. In an attempt to avoid overrunning the runway, the pilot shut down the right engine and executed a sharp left turn to exit via the last available taxiway intersection. This maneuver caused the aircraft to lose control, veer off the right side of taxiway E, and fall from a height of over five meters. The aircraft sustained major damage and was considered a total loss. The four occupants of the aircraft were uninjured, though a bystander near the crash site sustained minor injuries.
The investigation
CENIPA's investigation focused on the sequence of events leading to the unstable approach and the subsequent ground excursion. Investigators examined the aircraft's maintenance records, which showed the braking system was fully functional and no hydraulic leaks were present. The investigation also reviewed the cockpit voice recorder (CVR), which revealed a lack of an adequate landing briefing and poor cockpit coordination. The crew had been informed by Air Traffic Control that the runway was wet, yet they did not adjust their approach parameters or consider a go-around. Furthermore, the investigation identified regulatory discrepancies regarding the pilot's employment status and the required licensing for the crew members.