On May 22, 2000, a Pzl-mielec M-18A (registration N2296C) was involved in an aviation accident near Kilbourne, LA. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: Separation of the right wing's forward lower attachment fitting due to fatigue cracking resulting from severe corrosion pitting in the bore of the central lug. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.
An agricultural airplane's right wing separated after a spray run due to fatigue cracking from severe corrosion pitting, leading to impact with terrain.
Accident Description
The pilot of an agricultural airplane had completed a second spray run and initiated a climb when the right wing separated from the aircraft. Following the separation, the airplane impacted the ground and came to rest against a tree line.
Examination Findings
Post-accident examination of the airplane revealed that the right wing's forward lower attachment fitting had separated. The separation was caused by fatigue cracking that originated from severe corrosion pitting located in the bore of the central lug of the fitting.
Investigation Results
The investigation determined that the fatigue cracking was a direct result of the severe corrosion pitting present in the attachment fitting. No other factors were identified as contributing to the failure.
Probable cause
Separation of the right wing's forward lower attachment fitting due to fatigue cracking resulting from severe corrosion pitting in the bore of the central lug.
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