Casualties unknown

Airplane Strikes Tree During Agricultural Spraying Pull-Up (N9567P)

Blakley, GA, US

On October 20, 1997, a Piper PA-25-235C (registration N9567P) was involved in an aviation accident near Blakley, GA. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: the pilot misjudge clearance from trees during pull-up from a swath run. The obstructions (power line and trees) were related factors. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.

Sourcesthe U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archivePrimary reportUpdated 2026-07-04Data APIEditorial standards

During a pull-up from a swath run, an agricultural airplane struck a tree, then impacted the ground and burned. The pilot reported no mechanical issues before impact.

Event Description

The accident occurred while the airplane was performing an agricultural spraying operation. During the pull-up from a swath run, the airplane collided with a tree. The pilot later stated that before initiating the pull-up, he had been checking the drift of the spray for the next swath run. He was aware of the presence of trees in the area and had planned to pull up from beneath a set of utility lines before reaching the trees.

Pilot Actions

Following the collision with the tree, the airplane began to roll to the left. The pilot managed to maintain the aircraft upright by reducing engine power and applying opposite aileron. Despite these efforts, the airplane subsequently impacted the ground and was consumed by fire.

Outcome

The pilot reported that there were no preimpact mechanical problems with the airplane. No further details about the aircraft, operator, or injuries were provided.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 20 Oct 1997 Piper PA-25-235C accident near Blakley, GA?

During a pull-up from a swath run, an agricultural airplane struck a tree, then impacted the ground and burned. The pilot reported no mechanical issues before impact.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 20 Oct 1997 involved a Piper PA-25-235C, registration N9567P, at Blakley, GA.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

the pilot misjudge clearance from trees during pull-up from a swath run. The obstructions (power line and trees) were related factors.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001208X08953. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.