Pilot Debrief

AIR TRACTOR INC AT-602 near New Washington, OH — 2024-05-18

Final reportERA24LA220
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Date
2024-05-18
Location
New Washington, OH, USA
Aircraft
AIR TRACTOR INC AT-602
Registration
N4196K
Category
Airplane
Highest injury
Minor
Fatalities
0

Probable cause

The pilot’s failure to maintain clearance from powerlines during an aerial application flight.

NTSB narrative

The pilot of the aerial application airplane surveyed the field at a higher altitude prior to spraying. He determined that spraying north and south, while flying below high-tension lines, would require the least amount of maneuvering in the heavy airplane. The pilot flew the first pass uneventfully; however, during the second pass, the airplane’s rudder contacted a powerline. The rudder separated and the airplane landed sideways in the field, resulting in substantial damage to the wings and fuselage. The pilot stated that there were no preimpact mechanical malfunctions or failures of the airplane that would have precluded normal operation.

NTSB coding

Evidence available

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

Docket documents2

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