Casualties unknown

Aerial Application Aircraft Collides with Power Line, Forced Landing Ensues (N5111A)

Columbia River, WA, US

On September 27, 2000, an Air Tractor AT-602 (registration N5111A) was involved in an aviation accident near Columbia River, WA. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: Clearance from a transmission power line was not maintained. The power line was a factor. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.

Sourcesthe U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archivePrimary reportUpdated 2026-07-04Data APIEditorial standards

During a spray run, an aerial application aircraft hit a power line, lost engine power, and made a forced landing, colliding with small trees before stopping.

Incident Overview

During an aerial application spray run, the aircraft collided with a power line located on the northeast corner of the field. Following the collision, the engine lost power, prompting the pilot to initiate a forced landing in a nearby field.

Forced Landing and Subsequent Collision

During the landing roll, the aircraft collided with several small trees before coming to rest. The pilot stated that he was aware of the location of the power lines before he began the spray run.

Pilot Statement

The pilot reported that he had knowledge of the power lines' position prior to commencing the spray run. No further details regarding the pilot's actions or decisions were provided.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 27 Sept 2000 Air Tractor AT-602 accident near Columbia River, WA?

During a spray run, an aerial application aircraft hit a power line, lost engine power, and made a forced landing, colliding with small trees before stopping.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 27 Sept 2000 involved an Air Tractor AT-602, registration N5111A, at Columbia River, WA.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

Clearance from a transmission power line was not maintained. The power line was a factor.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001212X22085. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.