Pilot Debrief

AIR TRACTOR INC AT-802 near Brad, TX — 2024-07-04

Final reportCEN24LA255
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Date
2024-07-04
Location
Brad, TX, USA
Aircraft
AIR TRACTOR INC AT-802
Registration
N983LA
Category
Airplane
Highest injury
None
Fatalities
0

Probable cause

The pilot’s failure to maintain airplane control after encountering a large boat wake.

NTSB narrative

The pilot was performing firefighting activity at the time of the accident. He reported that after scooping a load of water and applying takeoff power, the airplane encountered a large boat wake which caused it to become airborne. However, the pilot did not have sufficient flight control authority to counter act the engine torque. The left float contacted the water, and the airplane veered to the left. The left-wing spar was damaged during the impact sequence. The pilot reported that there were no mechanical failures or malfunctions before the accident that would have precluded normal airplane operation.

NTSB coding

Evidence available

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

Docket documents2

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