What happened
The pilot departed at approximately 1922 to apply a non-toxic liquid chemical and fertilizer on a nearby melon field. After completing one normal swath run on a northerly heading, the pilot pulled up and initiated a procedure turn to the left (west). During the reentry to the field at the bottom of this descending turn, the pilot attempted to flare but was unable to avoid ground contact.
The investigation
The pilot reported that he did not experience any mechanical failure or malfunction prior to the accident. He stated that the afternoon sun distracted his attention from the rotor and engine RPM at the top of the turn.
Findings
The primary factor contributing to the accident was the pilot's loss of situational awareness due to distraction by the afternoon sun. This distraction prevented him from monitoring critical flight instruments, specifically the rotor and engine RPM, during a low-altitude maneuver. The failure to maintain adequate instrument scan led directly to the ground contact.
Safety message
Pilots conducting low-level agricultural operations must remain vigilant regarding environmental distractions such as direct sunlight. Maintaining proper instrument cross-check is essential, particularly during turns and descents where airspeed and power settings are critical for safe recovery.