Pilot Debrief

AIR TRACTOR INC AT 502B near Basile, LA — 2015-05-05

Final reportCEN15LA222
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Date
2015-05-05
Location
Basile, LA, USA
Aircraft
AIR TRACTOR INC AT 502B
Registration
N4221G
Category
Airplane
Highest injury
Fatal
Fatalities
1
Phase of flight
Maneuvering

Probable cause

The pilot’ failure to maintain adequate clearance from trees while maneuvering during an aerial application flight.

NTSB narrative

The operator reported that the pilot was applying dry, granular fertilizer to a rice field. During the last application pass, the airplane's left wing struck trees. The airplane then struck several additional trees, traveled about 550 ft, and impacted terrain. A postimpact fire ensued and subsequently consumed a majority of the airplane. Although the wreckage was significantly fragmented and damaged by fire, no evidence of any preimpact mechanical malfunctions or failures of the airframe or engine were noted that would have precluded normal operation. Examination of the accident site and wreckage revealed tree strikes and left wing damage that were consistent with the pilot's failing to maintain clearance from the trees while maneuvering at a low altitude.

Analysis

Primary failure mode
Loss of control
First missed decision gate
Pilot could have avoided trees during final application pass.

NTSB coding

Evidence available

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

Docket documents9

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