What happened
The pilot was operating the aircraft during an agricultural application mission. While returning to base after completing a field spraying operation, the engine suddenly lost power without warning. The pilot immediately initiated emergency procedures for a forced landing, selecting an adjacent alfalfa field as the landing site.
During the descent and touchdown sequence, the left main landing gear struck a ditch within the field. This impact caused the aircraft to roll over, coming to rest in an inverted position on its roof. The force of the rollover resulted in significant structural damage to the airframe.
The investigation
An FAA inspector arrived at the scene shortly after the accident to examine the wreckage and the aircraft components. A detailed visual inspection of the engine revealed a critical defect. Investigators identified a distinct crack located on the bottom surface of the number 5 cylinder. This mechanical failure was consistent with the reported sudden loss of power during flight.
Findings
The investigation determined that the primary factor leading to the accident was the structural failure of the engine component. The crack in the cylinder likely caused an immediate and total loss of engine operation, leaving the pilot with no option other than a forced landing. The subsequent impact with the ditch and the resulting rollover were direct consequences of the emergency landing conditions.