Pilot Debrief

AIR TRACTOR INC AT 502B near Garfield, KS — 2014-04-22

Final reportCEN14LA211
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Date
2014-04-22
Location
Garfield, KS, USA
Aircraft
AIR TRACTOR INC AT 502B
Registration
N51990
Category
Airplane
Highest injury
Fatal
Fatalities
1
Phase of flight
Approach

Probable cause

The pilot’s inadequate preflight planning and subsequent failure to remain clear of power lines while maneuvering low to the ground.

NTSB narrative

The pilot was preparing to spray a hay field when the airplane collided with the top set of power lines that were about 60 feet tall and impacted the ground. The operator said that this was the pilot's first time spraying this field and that the pilot was not familiar with the field or the surrounding obstacles. The operator reported that a stand of trees was opposite the power lines and that it was difficult to see the top wires as you approached the field because "they would get lost in the trees." Postaccident examination of the airplane and engine revealed no pre-impact mechanical anomalies that would have precluded normal operation prior to the accident.

Analysis

Primary failure mode
Human factors
First missed decision gate
Pilot could have chosen to familiarize with the field and obstacles before spraying.

NTSB coding

Evidence available

  • Photos
  • 14 docket documents
View NTSB final reportView NTSB docket

Docket documents14

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