Casualties unknown

Aircraft Stalls and Collides with Treetops During Agricultural Spray Run (N9284G)

Stevens Point, WI, US

On July 8, 1982, a Cessna 188B (registration N9284G) operated by Skytractor Aerial Application was involved in an aviation accident near Stevens Point, WI. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.

Sourcesthe U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archivePrimary reportUpdated 2026-06-10Data APIEditorial standards

During an agricultural spray operation, the pilot became distracted by a leaking nozzle and a person on a porch, leading to a stall and subsequent collision with trees. The shoulder harness failed and the pilot sustained facial injuries.

Incident Summary

According to the pilot, while pulling up from a swath run, he noticed a left spray nozzle was leaking. At the same time, he observed a person on the porch of a house he was flying over. As he looked to determine whether the house and person would be avoided, the aircraft entered a nose-high, left-wing-low attitude.

Stall and Maneuvers

Reportedly, the aircraft entered a partial stall at about 180 feet above ground level. The pilot applied full power and dumped his chemical load. However, he became boxed in by trees up to 100 feet tall. While attempting to climb, the aircraft stalled and crashed into the treetops.

Injuries and Equipment Failure

During the impact sequence, the shoulder harness failed. The pilot received facial injuries as a result of the accident.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20020917X02975. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.