Incident Details
During the initial climb after takeoff, an aerial application aircraft, which was laden with 165 gallons of chemical, struck a hay bale located off the end of the runway. The impact severed the right main landing gear. Following the collision, the pilot maneuvered the aircraft back toward the airfield for a landing. During the landing, the right main landing gear collapsed, causing the right wing to contact the terrain. The aircraft then skidded to a stop.
Witness Observations
Witnesses to the accident reported observing the aircraft impact a hay bale situated beyond the end of the runway used for the takeoff run, resulting in the detachment of the right main landing gear.
Pilot Commentary
The pilot stated that the accident could have been prevented by carrying a smaller load or refraining from flying when density altitude is too high. Additionally, the pilot noted the importance of checking adjacent fields for temporary obstructions, such as hay bales, which may be present. The density altitude at the time of the accident was approximated at 4,780 feet above mean sea level.