On August 29, 1983, a Cessna A188A (registration N5633J) was involved in an aviation accident near Jesup, GA. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The pilot's failure to maintain adequate clearance from terrain and obstacles during low-level agricultural operations, which resulted in a collision with a tree and loss of control. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.
An aircraft struck the top of a pecan tree while pulling up from a spray swath, subsequently entering a spin and crashing. No mechanical discrepancies were found prior to impact.
What happened
The pilot was conducting agricultural spraying operations on a field bordered by tree lines along both its north and south edges. During the operation, the aircraft executed a run along the southern boundary of the treated area. While pulling up from this specific swath, the aircraft struck the top of a pecan tree located at the edge of the field.
Following the collision with the tree canopy, the aircraft pitched upward and subsequently entered a spin. The aircraft then crashed at the site of the impact. There were no reported discrepancies with the aircraft or engine prior to the accident sequence.
The investigation
Investigators examined the wreckage and the condition of the aircraft following the crash. A thorough inspection revealed no preimpact mechanical discrepancies with either the airframe or the engine. The damage was consistent with the described impact with the tree and subsequent spin.
Probable cause
The pilot's failure to maintain adequate clearance from terrain and obstacles during low-level agricultural operations, which resulted in a collision with a tree and loss of control.
Frequently asked questions
What happened in the 29 Aug 1983 Cessna A188A accident near Jesup, GA?
An aircraft struck the top of a pecan tree while pulling up from a spray swath, subsequently entering a spin and crashing. No mechanical discrepancies were found prior to impact.
What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?
The accident on 29 Aug 1983 involved a Cessna A188A, registration N5633J, at Jesup, GA.
What was the probable cause of the accident?
The pilot's failure to maintain adequate clearance from terrain and obstacles during low-level agricultural operations, which resulted in a collision with a tree and loss of control.
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