THRUSH AIRCRAFT INC S2R-H80 near Aurora, MO — 2022-05-12

Probable cause

The pilot did not ensure clearance from a power line during a surveillance pass of a field to be sprayed.

NTSB narrative

The pilot reported that prior to spraying any field, he would make two surveillance passes. During the second surveillance pass on the day of the accident, although he was aware of a power line in the vicinity, the pilot did not ensure safe clearance from the power line. The landing gear struck the power line and the airplane impacted terrain. Both wings and the fuselage sustained substantial damage. The pilot reported that there were no preaccident mechanical malfunctions or failures with the airplane that would have precluded normal operation.

NTSB coding

• Low altitude operation/event · Maneuvering-low-alt flying
• Collision with terr/obj (non-CFIT) · Maneuvering-low-alt flying
• Planning / Preparation

Evidence available

• Photos
• 2 docket documents

Docket documents2

• PILOT/OPERATOR AIRCRAFT ACCIDENT REPORT, NTSB FORM 6120.1form
• PHOTO OF THE AIRPLANE AT THE ACCIDENT SITE, COURTESY OF THE FAAphotos

Related mishaps

• CESSNA 172

  2026-05-10 · Marysvale, UT

• BRUNNER DONALD G KITFOX

  2026-03-10 · Rock Crossing, AZ

• ROBINSON HELICOPTER COMPANY R44 II

  2026-01-29 · Sullivan, MO

• BELL 206L-3

  2026-01-15 · Logsden, OR

• Glynn RS-3

  2025-12-19 · Crabapple, TX

• JUST Highlander

  2025-11-27 · Brazos, TX