Incident Overview
During the takeoff roll, the pilot of an agricultural aircraft reported a vibration in the tailwheel assembly. Despite the anomaly, the pilot continued the takeoff procedure but elected to return to the airport for a precautionary landing. The aircraft was carrying approximately 1,500 pounds of chemicals that were not dispensed or dumped before landing.
Sequence of Events
After returning to the airport, the pilot conducted a precautionary landing. At touchdown, the tailwheel assembly collapsed and separated from the airframe. The pilot subsequently lost control of the airplane as it skidded to a stop on the runway.
Examination Findings
An examination of the aircraft failed to disclose any material failure or system malfunction that could explain the tailwheel collapse.
Operator Information
According to the operator, the pilot had not made a landing with the airplane in a heavy or loaded configuration within the preceding twenty-four months. Additionally, the operator had no formal emergency dump policy to prevent landing with chemicals onboard during an emergency.