Incident Overview
According to the operator, a crop-dusting airplane collided with an unmarked power line while conducting a spray run over a cotton field. The pilot, who was familiar with the field, believed the aircraft was clear of power lines and initiated a climb, resulting in contact with the line. Following the collision, the pilot immediately landed the airplane in the cotton field.
Damage Assessment
Postaccident examination revealed that approximately 1 foot of the vertical stabilizer and rudder assembly had separated from the aircraft. Additionally, arcing was noted on the right wing lift strut, and the propeller sustained damage. The extent of other structural damage was not specified in the report.
Operator Comments
The operator stated that the pilot was aware of the field's layout but misjudged the position of the power lines, leading to the climb that caused the strike. The power lines were noted as unmarked.