What happened
The accident occurred during an agricultural operation where the aircraft was engaged in spraying a rice field. While performing this task, the pilot flew across several small dirt banks that had been constructed as furrows for water control within the field.
During one of the swath runs, the aircraft struck three of these furrowed banks which were situated in close proximity to one another. The impact caused the aircraft to flip over and crash. Following the collision, the aircraft caught fire and burned completely.
The investigation
Witnesses reported that the engine was operating normally prior to the impact. An examination of the event revealed no pre-impact mechanical problems with the aircraft systems.
Findings
The primary factor leading to the accident was the aircraft's contact with the terrain features during low-altitude agricultural work. The pilot lost control after striking the closely spaced dirt banks, resulting in a rollover and subsequent fire.