Pilot Debrief

AIR TRACTOR AT502 near Corcoran, CA — 2024-10-08

Final reportWPR25LA011
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Date
2024-10-08
Location
Corcoran, CA, USA
Airport
PVT
Aircraft
AIR TRACTOR AT502
Registration
N243LA
Category
Airplane
Highest injury
None
Fatalities
0

Probable cause

A total loss of engine power due to the pilot's improper manipulation of the condition lever during flight, which resulted in fuel starvation and a forced landing.

NTSB narrative

According to the pilot, while maneuvering from base to final, he noticed the fuel control condition lever was in the cut-off position, which subsequently resulted in fuel starvation and a total loss of engine power. He immediately pushed the power, propeller, and condition levers full forward, but did not observe an expected increase in power. After an unsuccessful attempt to restart the engine, the airplane landed in a cotton field short of the intended runway. Postaccident examination of the airplane revealed that substantial damage to the left wing and aileron. The pilot reported that there were no preaccident mechanical malfunctions or failures with the airplane that would have precluded normal operation.

NTSB coding

Evidence available

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

Docket documents3

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