On August 26, 2000, an Air Tractor AT-401 (registration N91842) operated by Barry Blackstone was involved in an aviation accident near Superior, NE. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: the cracked number 7 cylinder exhaust valve. A factor relating to this accident was the tree. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.
During an agricultural spraying flight near Superior, Nebraska, the engine experienced a power loss after sputtering and emitting smoke. The pilot attempted a forced landing in an alfalfa field but struck hay bales and a tree. Examination revealed a cracked exhaust valve on cylinder 7.
Incident Details
The pilot was conducting an aerial application operation over a milo field located approximately three miles southeast of Superior, Nebraska. While executing a turn to the south, the engine began to sputter and miss. Almost immediately, smoke was observed coming from the left side of the engine, followed by a substantial loss of power. The pilot turned the airplane to the north and attempted to put down in an alfalfa field. During the landing attempt, the airplane struck some hay bales and a tree. No further details on the aircraft's damage or occupant status were provided.
Investigation Findings
An examination of the airplane's engine revealed a cracked exhaust valve on the number 7 cylinder. No other anomalies were found during the inspection.
What happened in the 26 Aug 2000 Air Tractor AT-401 accident near Superior, NE?
During an agricultural spraying flight near Superior, Nebraska, the engine experienced a power loss after sputtering and emitting smoke. The pilot attempted a forced landing in an alfalfa field but struck hay bales and a tree. Examination revealed a cracked exhaust valve on cylinder 7.
What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?
The accident on 26 Aug 2000 involved an Air Tractor AT-401, registration N91842, operated by Barry Blackstone, at Superior, NE.
What was the probable cause of the accident?
the cracked number 7 cylinder exhaust valve. A factor relating to this accident was the tree.
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