What happened
The incident occurred during daytime agricultural operations when the aircraft experienced an unexpected loss of engine power. The pilot initiated a forced landing procedure to bring the airplane down safely. During the landing roll, a herd of cattle suddenly appeared in the flight path, requiring immediate evasive action.
To avoid striking the animals, the pilot abruptly changed the direction of the aircraft. This sudden maneuver placed excessive stress on the airframe, resulting in the landing gear collapsing. The specific cause of the initial power loss was not determined during the investigation.
The investigation
Investigators examined the circumstances surrounding the forced landing and the subsequent damage to the aircraft. The primary focus was on the sequence of events leading to the structural failure of the landing gear. No mechanical defects were identified as the root cause of the power loss, leaving the initial engine failure unexplained.
Findings
The investigation revealed that the collapse of the landing gear was a direct result of the pilot's evasive action taken during the landing roll. The sudden change in direction while on the ground exceeded the structural limits of the gear assembly. The agricultural operations phase of flight and the presence of livestock were key factors in the severity of the incident.
Safety message
This incident highlights the risks associated with low-level agricultural flights, particularly the potential for wildlife hazards during emergency procedures. Pilots operating in agricultural areas should remain vigilant for livestock and other obstacles that may necessitate sudden maneuvers during critical phases of flight.