Cenipa Says Failed Anti‑Ice Systems and Crew Errors Caused Voepass Crash

Overview

• On July 23, 2026, Cenipa published its final, peer‑reviewed report and simulation showing that failed de‑icing/anti‑ice systems allowed rapid ice build‑up on the ATR 72‑500’s wings, triggering a loss of control that killed 62 people.
• Investigators found the aircraft was dispatched with multiple MEL (Minimum Equipment List) items logged and a failed windshield wiper that should have barred the flight under the forecast of rain.
• Cockpit voice and flight data records show repeated ice‑detection alerts were ignored or handled improperly, pilots carried on personal conversations during critical moments, and the copilot said he had 'forgotten' to activate the de‑icing system.
• Cenipa documented a pattern of unreported faults and procedural lapses at Voepass — described as a 'culture of normalisation of deviations' — and listed at least 19 contributing factors, some classified as indeterminate.
• The report will feed ANAC’s review of safety recommendations over the next four months and inform the Polícia Federal’s ongoing criminal inquest, which authorities expect to seek conclusions in August 2026 while families pursue civil claims.