Pilot Debrief

AIR TRACTOR AT-802A near Meeker, CO — 2008-08-27

Final reportDFW08TA224
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Date
2008-08-27
Location
Meeker, CO, USA
Aircraft
AIR TRACTOR AT-802A
Registration
N189LA
Category
Airplane
Highest injury
Minor
Fatalities
0

Probable cause

The pilot's improper decision to continue an aerial application following an uncommanded opening of the cabin door in flight, and his subsequent failure to maintain control of the airplane.

NTSB narrative

While making a pass to drop fire retardant, the airplane's left cockpit access door opened when the airplane experienced an area of turbulence. Although the pilot was unable to close the door, he elected to attempt another pass to jettison his remaining retardant before returning back to the airport. During the pass the airplane departed controlled flight and impacted the ground in a right wing low attitude. The airplane came to a rest in an upright position and the pilot was able to exit the airplane unassisted. An examination of the airplane's door latch revealed no pre-impact anomalies.

NTSB coding

View NTSB final report

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