Accident Sequence
According to the investigation, the accident aircraft experienced a total loss of power very shortly after takeoff, caused by a failed cylinder head assembly. Witnesses reported observing the aerial application aircraft at an altitude of 30 to 50 feet above ground level over the runway. The aircraft then pulled up steeply, rolled, and entered a near-vertical uncontrolled descent, colliding with terrain. A post-crash fire consumed most of the wreckage.
Forced Landing Attempt
Despite the presence of open level terrain off the end of the runway, the pilot attempted to return to the runway for a forced landing. The terrain beyond the runway offered a potential landing area, but the pilot opted to return to the runway.
Metallurgical Examination
A metallurgical examination of the failed cylinder head revealed extensive fatigue cracking. The cracking initiated in the cylinder liner thread roots and between the cooling fins at the top of the cylinder. This fatigue failure led to the cylinder head assembly failure and subsequent power loss.
Probable Cause
The probable cause of the accident was a failed cylinder head assembly that resulted in a total power loss very shortly after takeoff.