Beechcraft King Air F90 crashed shortly after take of : Potential Causes of the Crash

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On the morning of February 7, 2025, a Beechcraft King Air F90, registered as PS-FEM, crashed shortly after takeoff from São Paulo-Campo de Marte Airport (SBMT), resulting in the deaths of both occupants and injuries to several individuals on the ground. The aircraft impacted Avenida Marquês de São Vicente in the Barra Funda region of São Paulo, colliding with vehicles, including a bus, and igniting a significant fire.

Flight Details and Meteorological Conditions

The aircraft departed from runway 30 at SBMT at approximately 10:16 AM local time, initiating a left-hand turn before rapidly losing altitude and crashing.

Meteorological Aerodrome Reports (METARs) from the time indicate favorable weather conditions:

  •     11:00 AM: Wind from 290° at 3 knots, variable between 250° and 320°; Ceiling and Visibility OK (CAVOK); Temperature 24°C; Dew Point 18°C; Altimeter setting 1017 hPa.
  •     10:00 AM: Wind from 240° at 1 knot; CAVOK; Temperature 22°C; Dew Point 19°C; Altimeter setting 1017 hPa.

These reports suggest clear skies, minimal wind, and good visibility, making adverse weather an unlikely factor in the accident.

Potential Causes of the Crash

While the exact cause remains under investigation, preliminary reports and witness accounts provide insights into possible contributing factors:

    Engine Failure: Shortly after takeoff, the pilot reported technical issues and attempted to return to the airport. Witnesses observed the aircraft descending rapidly before impact, which may indicate a loss of engine power. In twin-engine aircraft like the King Air F90, an engine failure during initial climb can lead to a loss of control if not managed properly.

    Mechanical Malfunction: The aircraft was manufactured in 1981, making it over four decades old. Age-related wear and tear or deferred maintenance could have contributed to a mechanical failure. However, records indicate that the aircraft's maintenance was up to date, and it had been purchased by its current owner in December 2024.

    Pilot Error: The pilot's response to the reported technical issues will be a focal point of the investigation. Proper emergency procedures, such as feathering a failed propeller and maintaining control of the aircraft, are critical during an engine failure. Deviations from standard protocols can exacerbate an already critical situation.

    Fuel Contamination or Mismanagement: Issues related to fuel quality or incorrect fuel management can lead to engine power loss. Investigators will likely examine fuel samples and review refueling procedures to rule out this possibility.

Conclusion

While favorable weather conditions suggest that environmental factors were not contributors, the exact cause of the PS-FEM crash will remain undetermined until a thorough investigation is completed by aviation authorities. This incident underscores the importance of rigorous maintenance, prompt emergency response, and adherence to safety protocols in aviation operations.

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Confidence Rating

The information provided is based on news reports and social media sources, which may not always be fully verified. This analysis is a self-effort and does not reflect official statements or conclusions. As such, the confidence rating for this data is considered unofficial and subject to further investigation.

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Location: Av. Marquês de São Vicente - Barra Funda, São Paulo - SP, Brazil

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