Brazil’s air accident investigation agency, Cenipa, has published its preliminary report on the Voepass ATR 72-500 accident that occurred on August 9, 2024. The report sheds light on critical details leading up to the crash, which took place during a flight through challenging weather conditions.
According to the report, the co-pilot was in communication with Voepass’ operational dispatcher on the ground as the aircraft encountered repeated anti-ice warnings. The alarm reportedly went off eight times during the flight. In addition to the anti-ice alerts, the pilots also received warnings of CRUISE SPEED LOW and DEGRADED PERFORMANCE while navigating through icing conditions at an altitude of Flight Level 170.
About two minutes before the crew lost control of the aircraft, the co-pilot remarked on the growing threat, stating, “a lot of ice.” The investigation has confirmed that the pilots activated the plane’s anti-icing system multiple times during the flight. However, there was a critical period when the aircraft flew for six minutes with an ice warning active, but without the de-icing system being engaged.
At this stage, Cenipa’s preliminary report does not pinpoint the exact cause of the crash. Lieutenant Colonel conducting the investigation emphasized that the current analysis is focused on the objective facts surrounding the flight and that no definitive conclusions regarding mechanical failure or pilot error have been drawn at this time.
One notable aspect of the report is that the pilots did not declare an emergency at any point during the flight, despite the series of warnings and deteriorating conditions.
The investigation remains ongoing as Cenipa continues to gather data and review evidence related to the crash.
