On August 16, 1995, a Wsk Pzl Mielec M-18A (registration N2065S) operated by Fredrick J. Quandt was involved in an aviation accident near Wilmot, AR. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: THE LOSS OF ENGINE POWER FOR UNDETERMINED REASONS. A FACTOR WAS THE LACK OF SUITABLE TERRAIN FOR THE FORCED LANDING. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.
A commercial pilot dumped 500 gallons of chemicals after losing engine power shortly after liftoff from a 2,900-foot grass airstrip. The aircraft belly-landed at the edge of a rice paddy, colliding with an irrigation water well and sustaining structural damage to the right wing.
Event Overview
A commercial pilot experienced a loss of engine power immediately following liftoff from a 2,900-foot grass airstrip. The pilot jettisoned 500 gallons of chemicals from the hopper before the aircraft impacted the ground.
Landing and Damage
The airplane came to rest on its belly at the edge of a rice paddy located at the end of the airstrip. During the landing, the right wing collided with a water well used for irrigating the rice paddy, resulting in structural damage to the wing.
Investigation
Investigators were unable to determine the reason for the loss of engine power. No other contributing factors were identified in the report.