Incident Details
A pilot was performing swath runs in an agricultural spray operation when a procedure turn-around was initiated to finish spraying the field with remaining chemical. Approximately halfway through the turn, the pilot reportedly experienced unfavorable wind conditions. This resulted in a loss of altitude and subsequent impact with rising terrain.
Pilot Report
According to the pilot, changing winds and downdrafts were present in the area throughout the swath runs. The specific wind conditions at the time of the accident could not be confirmed, as official weather records were unavailable.
Investigation
Post-accident examination of the airplane revealed no mechanical deficiencies. The investigation focused on the reported wind conditions, but without official weather data, the exact nature of the unfavorable winds could not be verified.
The airplane sustained damage from the impact with the rising terrain. The pilot's account of the encounter with downdrafts and changing winds remains a key aspect of the incident.