Accident Sequence
The airplane had just completed an aerial application flight. After departing the field, the pilot initiated a climb to return to the airport. While climbing at an altitude of approximately 250 to 300 feet, the airplane encountered a downdraft. The pilot reported encountering severe turbulence and a severe downdraft. He added full power, but the airplane descended to about 50 feet above ground. At that altitude, the right wing struck cottonwood trees. Subsequently, the airplane stalled and descended into a bean field. During the impact, the fuel tank ruptured, which led to a post-crash fire.
Pilot Report
The pilot stated that the ceiling had decreased to approximately 800 feet during the flight. He noted on an NTSB Form 6120.1/2, "I hit severe turbulence and a severe downdraft." He also wrote, "If I had left the field sooner instead of finishing my load I may have avoided the whole incident."
Weather Conditions
Weather radar images and local observations indicated that thunderstorms were moving into the area at the time of the accident.