Fertilizer aircraft impact during takeoff roll

Casualties unknown • Palouse, WA, US

A fertilizer dispensing aircraft impacted upsloping terrain shortly after takeoff while operating under a heavy load.

What happened

During the 30th load of the day, a Cessna (type not specified) was engaged in dispensing fertilizer. The aircraft was loaded with approximately 1,300 pounds of Urea for the mission. During the takeoff roll on runway 29 under calm wind conditions, the pilot reported that the tail came up normally and noted no engine issues.

As the aircraft lifted off, it remained in ground effect while climbing an upslope. The pilot then observed the aircraft begin to settle. In an attempt to regain performance, the pilot started dumping the load; however, insufficient weight was shed before the aircraft impacted upsloping terrain in a three-point attitude. Following this initial impact, the aircraft became airborne for a short distance before colliding with the top of a subsequent hill.

After exiting the aircraft, the pilot noted the presence of a slight tailwind. The pilot reported no injuries and no evidence of mechanical failure or malfunction during the accident sequence.

Probable cause

The aircraft impacted terrain due to insufficient weight reduction from the fertilizer load before encountering upsloping terrain during takeoff.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 2005-04-04 Cessna A188B accident near Palouse, WA?

A fertilizer dispensing aircraft impacted upsloping terrain shortly after takeoff while operating under a heavy load.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 2005-04-04 involved a Cessna A188B, registration N4784Q, at Palouse, WA.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The aircraft impacted terrain due to insufficient weight reduction from the fertilizer load before encountering upsloping terrain during takeoff.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20050420X00482. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.

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