Casualties unknown

Agricultural Aircraft Strikes Fence After Low-Altitude Maneuver (N731ED)

Ringling, MT, US

On September 9, 1993, a Cessna A188B (registration N731ED) operated by Russaero Flying Service was involved in an aviation accident near Ringling, MT. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: THE PILOT'S FAILURE TO MAINTAIN AIRSPEED. 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 2026-06-10Data APIEditorial standards

An agricultural airplane struck a barbed wire fence after a low-altitude maneuver involving power lines, touching down multiple times before coming to rest in an open field. The pilot reported no mechanical issues.

Accident Overview

An agricultural aircraft was involved in an accident during a low-altitude operation near the end of an airstrip. The airplane lifted off at the end of the strip and was flown close to the ground in order to pass under a set of power lines. After clearing the power lines, the airplane settled and touched down briefly. It then became airborne again, and the pilot dumped the chemical load. The aircraft traveled a short distance before touching down once more and colliding with a barbed wire fence. It subsequently came to rest in an open field.

Aircraft and Pilot Information

The pilot reported that there were no mechanical failures or malfunctions with the airplane at the time of the accident. No other details about the aircraft or pilot were provided in the source.

Sequence of Events

The flight began with a takeoff from the airstrip. The pilot intentionally flew at a low altitude to clear power lines near the end of the strip. After successfully passing under the lines, the aircraft descended and briefly touched the ground. It then became airborne again, and the pilot jettisoned the chemical load. Shortly thereafter, the aircraft touched down a second time and struck a barbed wire fence, finally coming to a stop in an open field.

Investigation Findings

The investigation did not specify any mechanical causes for the accident. The pilot's report indicated no pre-existing mechanical issues. The source did not state any conclusions regarding pilot actions or environmental factors.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001211X13479. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.