On July 8, 1997, a Wsk Pzl Mielec M-18A (registration N82019) operated by Air Crop Care was involved in an aviation accident near Clewiston, FL. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: a forced landing as a result of an undetermined loss of engine power and subsequent impact with a railroad switching unit and nose over. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.
An airplane experienced a loss of engine power during a left turn after departure, prompting a forced landing in a sugar cane field. The aircraft struck obstacles and nosed over, resulting in a postcrash fire. The cause of the power loss could not be determined.
Accident Sequence
The airplane departed from a section of road approximately 3,000 feet long. After reaching an altitude of about 50 feet above ground, the pilot initiated a left turn to the crosswind. During this turn, the pilot reported that the engine lost power and began running rough. A forced landing was executed, with the pilot maneuvering the aircraft toward a sugar cane field. During the landing, the propeller struck a railroad switching unit. The airplane then crossed over an irrigation canal, and the tail wheel struck the bank of the canal. The aircraft subsequently nosed over, and a postcrash fire ensued.
Examination and Findings
Examination of the wreckage revealed that the postcrash fire melted the engine's accessory case. Due to this damage, postcrash testing of the engine was not possible. The reason for the loss of engine power was not determined.