Pilot Debrief

AIR TRACTOR INC AT 802 near Vernon, UT — 2017-01-17

Final reportGAA17CA117
Sign in to save
Date
2017-01-17
Location
Vernon, UT, USA
Aircraft
AIR TRACTOR INC AT 802
Registration
N20361
Category
Airplane
Highest injury
None
Fatalities
0

Probable cause

The pilot’s failure to maintain clearance from mountainous terrain.

NTSB narrative

The pilot of the tailwheel-equipped airplane reported that he attempted to transition a mountain ridge after he had completed an aerial application. He added that he began to climb to a safe altitude in rising terrain but realized that it was going to be "close to clear" the mountain top. He attempted to turn to the left but noted that the terrain would not allow him to do so. He continued straight ahead and impacted the mountain top about 10 ft from the crest. The airplane sustained substantial damage to both wings and the fuselage. 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
  • 2 docket documents
View NTSB final reportView NTSB docket

Docket documents2

Related mishaps