Casualties unknown

1992-06-15: Air Tractor AT-502 (N45383) — Hank's Flying Service — Kaplan, LA

Kaplan, LA, US

On June 15, 1992, an Air Tractor AT-502 (registration N45383) operated by Hank's Flying Service was involved in an aviation accident near Kaplan, LA. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: THE PILOT'S FAILURE TO LOWER FLAPS TO THE TAKEOFF POSITION. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.

Sourcesthe U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archivePrimary reportUpdated 1781061362Data APIEditorial standards

While loaded with chemicals, a pilot attempted takeoff from an agricultural airstrip but could not attain takeoff speed. The airplane struck trees and came to rest near a road.

Accident Details

During a takeoff attempt from an agricultural airstrip, a pilot was unable to reach takeoff speed while the aircraft was loaded with chemicals. The ambient temperature at the time of the incident was approximately 90 degrees Fahrenheit. As the airplane continued beyond the end of the runway, the pilot attempted to lower the flaps to the takeoff position. The aircraft subsequently struck trees and came to rest near a nearby road.

Pilot Statement

The pilot reported that the flaps would not lower during the takeoff roll. According to the pilot, the attempt to lower the flaps occurred just before the aircraft entered the area beyond the runway's end.

Investigation Findings

A Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) coordinator examined the flap system after the accident. The inspection determined that the flaps were functional and operating correctly. No anomalies were found in the flap mechanism.

Conclusion

The investigation did not identify a specific cause for the failure to attain takeoff speed or the flap issue reported by the pilot. The aircraft came to rest after striking trees, and no further details regarding injuries or damage were provided in the source.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001211X14854. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.