Casualties unknown

2003-05-19: Air Tractor AT-502B (N9086M) — Edna, TX

Edna, TX, US

On May 19, 2003, an Air Tractor AT-502B (registration N9086M) was involved in an aviation accident near Edna, TX. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The pilot's failure to maintain clearance with the transmission wires while maneuvering during an aerial application flight. A contributing factor was the haze restricting the visibility. 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 1781061362Data APIEditorial standards

While applying urea on a rice field, an aircraft collided with high voltage transmission wires at 50 feet AGL. Haze from forest fires reduced visibility. The pilot had previously flown under the wires but did not see them this time.

Overview

An agricultural aircraft collided with a set of high voltage transmission wires while conducting a urea application on an 85-acre rice field. The incident occurred in Central America, where haze from forest fires prevailed throughout the area.

Sequence of Events

The aircraft was traveling at 100 knots on a heading of 360 degrees. The transmission wires, which ran east to west, were positioned 50 feet above ground level. The pilot had flown under the same power lines on previous occasions but did not see them during this flight.

Environmental Conditions

Haze from forest fires reduced visibility in the region. The specific visibility distance was not recorded, but the haze was noted as being present throughout the area.

Aircraft Information

No details regarding the aircraft type, registration, or engine configuration were provided in the source. The aircraft was engaged in agricultural operations, specifically applying urea to a rice field.

Post-Impact

The collision with the wires likely caused damage to the aircraft, but the extent of damage and any occupant injuries are not specified in the source. The aircraft's subsequent actions after the collision were not documented.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20030527X00729. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.