Incident Overview
A pilot was conducting an aerial application flight when the aircraft's engine failed at a low altitude, according to a report filed with the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB). The pilot stated he had to set down immediately and landed in a bean field. He reported that the plane landed fine, but the tailwheel broke off and the aircraft ground looped due to rough but flat terrain.
FAA Account
According to the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), the pilot provided an alternative description of the event. The pilot stated that he was returning to the airstrip and was sightseeing, flying slowly, when he saw power lines in front of him. He panicked and abruptly shoved the power forward. The engine coughed and backfired, and the aircraft mushed into the ground.
Post-Accident Examination
An examination of the airplane revealed no discrepancies with the airframe or the engine. The pilot's initial report of an engine failure was not corroborated by the subsequent inspection, which found the engine to be functioning normally.
Outcome
The aircraft sustained damage during the ground loop, but the extent of damage to the airplane was not specified. No injuries were reported in the source.