Brazilian regulator tightens monitoring of Voepass in wake of ATR crash

Brazilian civil aviation regulator ANAC is placing regional carrier Voepass under enhanced operational supervision in the aftermath of the fatal accident involving one of its ATR 72-500 turboprops. The circumstances of the crash, near Vinhedo outside Sao Paulo on 9 August, have yet to be determined. But ANAC says that – following the accident, and “considering human factors aspects” – there is a need to “intensify” surveillance and monitoring of the carrier’s services, and establish parameters to “avoid abnormalities” in operation. The regulator discussed the measures with Voepass representatives on 16 August. Voepass had notified ANAC, the day before, that an ATR 72-600 operating from Rio Verde to Sao Paulo Guarulhos diverted to Uberlandia as a precaution following an electrical problem. ANAC says the occurrence did not amount to a failure, but it was nevertheless brought up during the subsequent meeting. Voepass has insisted that it follows “absolutely all protocols” and that its equipment and procedures comply with the “highest international aviation standards”.<br/>