Accident Details
A pilot was conducting herbicide spraying operations over a wheat field when, at the end of a spray pass, the aircraft struck the tops of some pine trees. Following the collision, the pilot successfully landed the aircraft in an open field; however, the aircraft nosed over after contacting soft mud.
Pilot and Aircraft Status
The pilot reported that there were no mechanical issues with the aircraft during the flight and attributed the accident to his own mistake. The subsequent investigation uncovered that the aircraft had not undergone an inspection in more than four years. Additionally, the pilot had not completed a biennial flight review for over six years, and his FAA medical certificate had been expired for more than three years.
Investigation Outcome
No other factors were identified as contributing to the accident. The investigation concluded that the circumstances involved both the pilot's operational error and the lack of current certifications and inspections.