Accident Overview
The purpose of the flight was to conduct aerial observation of a wheat field. Witnesses observed the airplane maneuvering at low altitudes, below 100 feet above ground level, before it pitched nose up and banked to the left, subsequently impacting the ground. A fire ensued after the impact.
Pilot Information
The pilot had accumulated approximately 435 hours of total flight time, with about 390 hours logged in the accident airplane. According to the airplane's co-owner, the pilot had flown less than two hours in the eight months preceding the accident.
Investigation Findings
Postaccident investigation revealed no evidence of preimpact mechanical malfunction. The airplane's systems were examined and no anomalies were found that would have contributed to the loss of control.