Pilot Debrief

AIR TRACTOR INC AT-602 near Drew, MS — 2021-06-04

Final reportCEN21LA254
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Date
2021-06-04
Location
Drew, MS, USA
Aircraft
AIR TRACTOR INC AT-602
Registration
N51037
Category
Airplane
Highest injury
Minor
Fatalities
0
Phase of flight
Takeoff roll

Probable cause

A loss of control during takeoff for reasons that could not be determined.

NTSB narrative

The pilot stated that the airplane had just been loaded with fertilizer for an aerial application flight and that the fuel tanks were about ¾ full. The last memory he had of the event was the start of the takeoff roll. There were no witnesses to the accident. A ground scar was present along the runway with the left navigation light embedded in the scar. The airplane sustained substantial damage to wings, ailerons, and rudder. Flight control continuity was established from the control stick to the aileron and elevator control surfaces and from the rudder pedals to the rudder. The tailwheel lock was found engaged and a functional test revealed no anomalies. Engine control continuity was established from the power quadrant to the engine and allowed for unrestricted movement of the power lever, propeller control lever, and condition lever. No anomalies or malfunctions were found that would have precluded normal operation. The reason for the loss of control during takeoff could not be determined based on the available information.

Analysis

Primary failure mode
Loss of control
First missed decision gate
Pilot could have aborted takeoff after loading fertilizer.

NTSB coding

Evidence available

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

Docket documents4

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