Casualties unknown

1986-09-29: Air Tractor AT-301 (N44245) — Town Creek, AL

Town Creek, AL, US

On September 29, 1986, an Air Tractor AT-301 (registration N44245) was involved in an aviation accident near Town Creek, AL. 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 1781061362Data APIEditorial standards

A pilot made a precautionary landing after an engine miss. After troubleshooting and run-ups, the engine lost power during initial climb at 30 ft AGL, resulting in a hard forced landing in a cotton field. The cause was not determined.

Incident Details

A pilot was conducting an aerial application flight when the engine developed a 'miss'. As a precaution, the pilot landed near the cotton fields that were intended to be sprayed. After landing, troubleshooting procedures were performed, and full-power engine run-ups were conducted. These checks did not reveal any problems. Consequently, the pilot decided to take off and continue the aerial application.

Sequence of Events

During the initial climb, at approximately 30 feet above ground level, the engine lost power. The pilot executed a forced landing in the cotton field, which was described as hard. The aircraft came to rest in the field. The pilot had reported the engine miss prior to the first landing, and after the power loss, there was no opportunity to troubleshoot further.

Investigation Outcome

An investigation into the loss of engine power was conducted. However, no determination was made as to the reason for the power loss. The cause of the engine power loss remains unknown.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001213X34721. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.