Accident Overview
The pilot of an agricultural airplane reported that shortly after takeoff, during the initial climb, the aircraft developed a high sink rate. In response, the pilot increased engine power and jettisoned the load, but the airplane continued to descend and eventually impacted terrain in a level flight attitude. The accident site was approximately 1.5 miles north of the departure airport.
Flight Conditions
The pilot stated that he departed the runway with a slight quartering tailwind. The field elevation at the departure airport was 4,048 feet above mean sea level, and the estimated density altitude was about 5,584 feet. The operator reported that the airplane was loaded with approximately 2,000 pounds of dry fertilizer and about 55 gallons of Jet A fuel.
Mechanical Status
The operator indicated that there were no mechanical malfunctions or failures with the airplane prior to the accident.