What happened
During the third takeoff of the day, an agricultural aircraft experienced a loss of lift and altitude while flying downwind of several grain elevators. In an attempt to manage the situation, the pilot released the aircraft's chemical load. However, due to nearby obstructions in the flight path, the pilot determined that recovery was not possible.
To avoid injuring anyone on the ground, the pilot executed a controlled descent into a ditch. The impact resulted in not injured occupants but caused significant damage to the aircraft. Specifically, the wings, landing gear, engine, hopper, and fuel tank sustained damage during the landing.
At 2035, weather at Devils Lake Municipal Airport was reported with winds from 110 degrees at 5 knots, visibility of 10 statute miles, clear skies, a temperature of 26 degrees C, and an altimeter setting of 29.83 inches of mercury.
The investigation
An inspection of the wreckage was conducted following the incident. Investigators found no preimpact anomalies regarding the mechanical condition of the aircraft.