Incident Overview
An aerial application aircraft was engaged in a local spraying operation over a milo field. While cleaning up the edge of the field, the airplane struck an electrical wire. The wire struck the leading edge of the rudder and vertical stabilizer junction. The aircraft's wire cutters failed to sever the wire.
Damage and Inflight Separation
The impact pulled out the upper bolt of the rudder, leaving the rudder attached only by cables and the lower bolt. The pilot proceeded to fly approximately 15 miles to the airport. During this flight, the rudder vibrated loose and separated completely from the aircraft.
Loss of Control
Upon arrival at the airport, the pilot reduced speed for landing and flare. At that point, the pilot lost control of the airplane due to the missing rudder.
Probable Cause
null