2001-06-19: Air Tractor AT-502B — Name — Newport, AR

Casualties unknown • Newport, AR, US

Probable cause

the loss of control during takeoff initial climb as a result of encountering wake turbulence due to the pilot's failure to recognize the hazard and delay the takeoff.

— NTSB Determination

Accident narrative

During takeoff from a grass airstrip behind another agricultural airplane of the same type, the agricultural airplane encountered wake turbulence. The pilot turned the airplane to the left to "try and get out of it." The airplane's left wing and left main landing gear struck the ground, the airplane bounced on its right wing, and landed on its empennage. Subsequently, the airplane came to rest upright in a field. The pilot stated that the accident could have been prevented if he had waited "about one more minute" before taking off.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 2001-06-19 Air Tractor AT-502B accident near Newport, AR?

During takeoff from a grass airstrip behind another agricultural airplane of the same type, the agricultural airplane encountered wake turbulence. The pilot turned the airplane to the left to "try and get out of it." The airplane's left wing and left main landing gear struck the ground, the airplane bounced on its…

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 2001-06-19 involved a Air Tractor AT-502B, registration N6082B, operated by Name, at Newport, AR.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

the loss of control during takeoff initial climb as a result of encountering wake turbulence due to the pilot's failure to recognize the hazard and delay the takeoff.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20010622X01242. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.

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