Accident Overview
An agricultural airplane, loaded with chemicals and water for application, conducted a takeoff. After lifting off and reaching an altitude of approximately 75 to 100 feet above the ground, the engine lost power and subsequently ceased operation. The airplane then collided with a tree, struck the ground, and was engulfed in fire.
Postcrash Findings
Following the accident, the dump door on the load hopper was found in the open position. A postcrash examination of the engine was performed, which revealed no failures or malfunctions that were not attributable to the impact and subsequent ground fire. The fire extensively damaged the engine accessory section and the cockpit, disrupting flight control continuity.
Examination Results
The engine examination did not identify any pre-impact anomalies. All observed damage was consistent with the forces of impact and the thermal effects of the fire. The interruption of flight control continuity was a direct result of the fire damage to the cockpit area.
Conclusion
The investigation documented the sequence of events: loss of engine power shortly after takeoff, collision with a tree, ground impact, and fire. The open dump door was noted, but its operational status prior to the loss of power was not determined from the available evidence. The engine's postcrash condition showed no evidence of a pre-existing failure.