Incident Overview
A pilot returning to the area after picking up a load of Di-Syston experienced an accident while maneuvering to spray. Another agricultural aircraft was operating in an adjacent field at the same time. The pilot circled to locate the other aircraft but did not see it. He checked the smoke to determine wind direction and then began a letdown.
Sequence of Events
As the aircraft turned across a creek, it entered a downdraft and/or crosswind, causing a loss of altitude. The pilot reported seeing that a ground impact was imminent. To avoid stalling, he maintained speed and touched down in a three-point attitude. Upon touchdown, the main landing gear encountered soft terrain, which caused the aircraft to flip over.
Environmental Conditions
The pilot reported that winds were from 5 to 10 knots with gusts. The aircraft was carrying a load of Di-Syston, a pesticide. No other environmental conditions were specified.
Aftermath
The aircraft sustained damage from the overturn. The pilot's account provided the basis for the sequence of events. The investigation noted the pilot's action to avoid a stall and the soft terrain as factors in the overturn.