On May 21, 2004, an Air Tractor AT-602 (registration N5013C) was involved in an aviation accident near Brookland, AR. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: Impact with power lines during maneuvering after agricultural application, leading to a forced landing in a rice field. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.
A pilot with 5,400 hours of experience struck power lines with the vertical stabilizer while maneuvering after agricultural work but successfully landed in a rice field.
What happened
Following the application of chemicals to an agricultural field, the pilot attempted to navigate the turbine-powered aircraft beneath overhead power lines. During this low-altitude maneuver, the vertical stabilizer made contact with one of the lines. Recognizing the hazard, the pilot initiated a climb to an altitude of 200 feet to survey the surrounding terrain for a suitable emergency landing site. After identifying a clear area, the pilot successfully landed the aircraft in a nearby rice field without sustaining further damage or injury.
The investigation
The source text does not provide specific details regarding mechanical examination or post-accident findings beyond the initial impact description.
Probable cause
Impact with power lines during maneuvering after agricultural application, leading to a forced landing in a rice field.
What happened in the 21 May 2004 Air Tractor AT-602 accident near Brookland, AR?
A pilot with 5,400 hours of experience struck power lines with the vertical stabilizer while maneuvering after agricultural work but successfully landed in a rice field.
What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?
The accident on 21 May 2004 involved an Air Tractor AT-602, registration N5013C, at Brookland, AR.
What was the probable cause of the accident?
Impact with power lines during maneuvering after agricultural application, leading to a forced landing in a rice field.
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