On August 8, 1988, a Piper PA-25-235 (registration N9612P) operated by Jeffrey J. Nord was involved in an aviation accident near Eldora, IA. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The pilot's failure to maintain aircraft control during agricultural operations, which resulted in a spin and collision with the ground. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.
An aircraft engaged in agricultural spraying operations was observed by a witness striking the ground before climbing and subsequently entering a spin that resulted in a crash.
What happened
The incident occurred while the pilot was conducting agricultural spraying operations on a bean field. A witness on the ground observed the aircraft strike the terrain. Following this initial impact, the aircraft managed to climb to an altitude of approximately 200 feet and leveled off briefly. The aircraft then initiated a gentle climb before entering a spin. It subsequently descended rapidly into the ground.
The investigation
A thorough examination of the wreckage was conducted to determine the mechanical status of the aircraft prior to the accident. The inspection revealed no evidence of pre-impact mechanical problems or system failures that would have contributed to the loss of control.
Probable cause
The pilot's failure to maintain aircraft control during agricultural operations, which resulted in a spin and collision with the ground.