On May 10, 1991, an Air Tractor AT 301 (registration N3658T) was involved in an aviation accident near Lake Providence, LA. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: A LOSS OF ENGINE POWER FOR UNDETERMINED REASONS RESULTING IN A FORCED LANDING AND NOSE OVER ON LANDING. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.
A pilot experienced power loss while seeding a rice field, performed a forced landing in rough terrain, and the airplane nosed over. No malfunctions were found; engine test run succeeded. Conflicting accounts of fuel quantity before departure. Wreckage recovered before authorities notified.
Accident Summary
While conducting aerial seeding operations over a rice field, the pilot encountered a loss of engine power. The pilot executed a forced landing in rough terrain. During the landing, the airplane nosed over.
Investigation Findings
Post-accident examination revealed no mechanical malfunctions. The engine was successfully test run following the accident, confirming it was operational. The wreckage was recovered before the Federal Aviation Administration or the National Transportation Safety Board received notification of the occurrence.
Fuel Management Discrepancy
The individual responsible for fueling and loading the airplane stated that the pilot would routinely restrict fuel quantity, leading to consistently low fuel levels. However, the pilot contradicted this account, reporting that he never departed with less than full fuel tanks. No further information regarding fuel quantity at the time of the accident was provided in the investigation materials.