What happened
The pilot was conducting agricultural operations, specifically spreading rice from the air, when he noticed a decrease in oil pressure. At the same time, the propeller began to feather. With no other suitable landing area available, the pilot chose to land in a plowed field. Shortly after touchdown, the aircraft nosed over and came to rest in an inverted position.
The investigation
A post-accident examination of the aircraft revealed that the loss of oil and oil pressure was caused by a crack in the oil cooler. This mechanical failure led to the propeller feathering and the subsequent emergency landing.
Findings
The primary factor contributing to the accident was the crack in the oil cooler, which resulted in a complete loss of oil pressure. The pilot's decision to land in a plowed field, while necessary due to the mechanical failure, led to the aircraft nosing over upon touchdown. No injuries were reported.
Safety message
This incident highlights the importance of regular maintenance checks on critical engine components such as oil coolers, especially for aircraft used in demanding agricultural operations.