On June 24, 1997, an Air Tractor AT-502 (registration N45461) operated by Tunica Air Service, Inc. was involved in an aviation accident near Tunica, MS. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The pilots poor preflight planning preparation for attempting to takeoff with a tailwind and with the hopper loaded 3/4 full during a 93degree F., day at a density altitude of 2,400 feet. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.
During a takeoff with a 5-knot tailwind in 93°F weather and the air conditioner running, the aircraft became airborne briefly, touched down in a bean field, then descended after a bounce while dumping its chemical load. The pilot stated the plane was likely overloaded for the conditions.
Circumstances
The pilot attempted a takeoff with the air conditioner operating, a 5-knot tailwind, and an ambient temperature of 93°F. Upon applying takeoff power, the pilot reported that power and acceleration were normal for the given temperature and wind conditions. At rotation, the aircraft became momentarily airborne but then touched down in a bean field.
After the initial touchdown, the aircraft bounced. The pilot initiated a dump of the chemical load, but the aircraft subsequently descended into the field. No engine failure or malfunction was reported.
Pilot Statement
The pilot later informed an FAA inspector that the aircraft was probably overloaded for the existing wind and temperature conditions. The pilot also confirmed there was no engine failure or malfunction during the event.