Casualties unknown

Crop Spraying Accident Due to Pilot Distraction (N91138)

Almond, WI, US

On August 22, 2001, a Cessna 188 (registration N91138) was involved in an aviation accident near Almond, WI. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: the pilot failed to maintain clearance from the corn crop. Additional factors were the inoperative spray pump, the corn crop, and the pilot's diverted attention. 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 2026-06-10Data APIEditorial standards

An airplane sustained substantial damage while spraying a cornfield after the pilot became distracted by an inoperative spray pump, causing the wheels to contact the crop and resulting in a loss of control.

Accident Overview

During a crop spraying operation over a cornfield, the airplane impacted the ground, resulting in substantial damage to the aircraft. The pilot reported that upon arriving at the field, the spray pump was found to be inoperative. While attempting to resolve the issue, the pilot's attention was diverted, and the airplane's wheels contacted the crop. The pilot was unable to recover control, and the aircraft struck the terrain.

Pilot Statement

The pilot stated: "Upon arrival at the field, it became evident my spray pump was inoperative. My attention was diverted for a moment as I was trying to solve the problem, and my wheels got in the crop. I was unable to recover. The terrain was a flat cornfield and the wreckage was all intact in one spot."

Damage and Location

The accident occurred in a flat cornfield. The airplane was substantially damaged, with the wreckage remaining intact and concentrated in a single location. No further details regarding the aircraft or injuries were provided in the report.

Circumstances

The pilot's attention was diverted by the malfunctioning spray pump, leading to the wheels contacting the crop. This sequence of events resulted in the loss of control and subsequent impact with the ground. The report does not specify any additional factors or contributing elements.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20010824X01764. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.