AYRES S2R-T15 near Morton, MS — 2008-08-17

Probable cause

The pilot’s failure to maintain clearance from trees during low altitude maneuvering.

NTSB narrative

The airplane departed for a scheduled agriculture application from a private airstrip after uploading fuel and pesticide. Authorities were notified once the airplane did not return and it was noted the application was not sprayed on the intended crop. The airplane was located later that evening, approximately a ¼-mile from the intended area of application. The airplane impacted trees on a southerly heading, and several trees and branches were observed cut along the airplane descent path into a wooded area. The airplane separated into several sections during the impact sequence. Examination of the wreckage established flight control continuity, and all separations were from impact forces. All flight controls surfaces and its systems were found at the accident sight. There were no indications of any mechanical discrepancies to any of the engine’s components. Damages to the engine were consistent with the engine at mid to high power range at the time of impact. There were no discrepancies noted that would have prevented normal operation of the propeller. All damage was consistent with impact damage. The propeller was rotating and not feathered, and damages to the blades were consistent with operating at high power at the time of impact. Weather information for the times and area of the accident site revealed no weather conditions existed that would have adverse effect on the pilot and the airplane during the accident flight.

Analysis

Primary failure mode

Controlled flight into terrain

First missed decision gate

Pilot could have chosen to abort the approach due to proximity to trees.

NTSB coding

• Low altitude operation/event · Maneuvering-low-alt flying
• Collision with terr/obj (non-CFIT) · Maneuvering-low-alt flying

Evidence available

• Photos
• 14 docket documents

Docket documents14

• Pilot/Operator Aircraft Accident Report, NTSB Form 6120.1form
• Reports from Federal Agencies: Federal Aviation Administration Inspector's Statement.interview
• Statement of Party Representatives to NTSB Investigationinterview
• Miscellaneous: Aero View of Accident Location, Provide by the Federal Aviation Administration.other
• Miscellaneous: Weather Documentation for the KJAN Area.other
• Photo 1) View of the Cut Trees Made by the Airplane Descent. Photo Provided by the Federal Aviation Administration.photos
• Photo 2) Rear View of the Wreckage. Photo Provided by the Federal Aviation Administration.photos
• Photo 3) View of the Left Side of the Wreckage. Photo Provided by the Federal Aviation Administration.photos
• Photo 4) View of the Cut Tree Branch. Photo Provided by the Federal Aviation Administration.photos
• Photo 5) View of the Separated Engine Nacelle Section. Photo Provided by the Federal Aviation Administration.photos
• Photo 6) View of the Propeller Blade. Photo Provided by the Federal Aviation. Administration.photos
• Reports from Parties to the Investigation: Excerpts from Hartzell Propeller, Inc. Examiantion.report
• Reports from Parties to the Investigation: Excerpts from Pratt & Whitney Examination.report
• Toxicological Reportreport

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