On March 13, 2004, an Air Tractor AT-301 (registration N4359S) was involved in an aviation accident near Plain Dealing, LA. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: Loss of engine power during climb for reasons that could not be determined. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.
An experienced pilot reported an R-1340 radial engine coughing and losing power during initial climb. The aircraft could not gain altitude, impacted terrain, and caught fire.
What happened
The pilot, who possessed approximately 8,500 hours of flight experience, initiated a climb immediately after takeoff. During this phase of flight, the aircraft's R-1340 radial engine began to cough and subsequently lost power. The pilot reported that the engine briefly regained power but stated it was insufficient to allow the airplane to gain any altitude. Consequently, the aircraft impacted terrain and came to rest in an upright position. A post-impact fire ensued following the collision.
The investigation
Investigators examined the circumstances surrounding the loss of power during the climb. However, the specific mechanical or operational reason for the power loss was not determined during the inquiry.
Findings
The primary factor in this accident was the unexplained loss of engine power during the critical climb phase. Despite the pilot's efforts to maintain altitude with the brief return of power, the aircraft was unable to clear the terrain.
Probable cause
Loss of engine power during climb for reasons that could not be determined.