Pilot Debrief

AIR TRACTOR INC AT-402B near Pierre, SD — 2025-06-24

Final reportCEN25LA221
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Date
2025-06-24
Location
Pierre, SD, USA
Aircraft
AIR TRACTOR INC AT-402B
Registration
N107ML
Category
Airplane
Highest injury
Serious
Fatalities
0

Probable cause

The pilot’s failure to maintain clearance with the power lines while maneuvering that resulted in an in-flight collision with the power lines and impact with terrain.

NTSB narrative

During an aerial application of a field, the airplane was in a 20 to 30o descent at 140 kts when its vertical stabilizer struck a power line. The vertical stabilizer and rudder separated from the airplane, which resulted in the airplane’s uncontrolled descent and impact with the ground. The airplane sustained substantial damage to the vertical stabilizer, rudder, fuselage, and both wings. The pilot stated that he knew the location of the power line, but it was pilot error that resulted in the collision with the power line. The pilot stated there were no mechanical malfunctions or failures with the airplane before the accident.

NTSB coding

Evidence available

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

Docket documents3

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