Aerial Application Accident Damages Aircraft After Striking Pivot and Landing in Field (N8951H)

Accident

An airplane was substantially damaged when it struck an object and then landed in a field during an aerial application maneuver. The impact occurred while the aircraft was performing a spraying operation. After hitting a pivot, the pilot determined that the damage was sufficient to warrant an immediate landing in an adjacent potato field.

Pilot's Statement

The pilot reported that the accident occurred at 8:00 AM. He explained that the aircraft was flying into the sun, which significantly reduced visibility. The decision to fly eastward into the sun was made to avoid flying directly toward a house. The object struck was a pivot, and the resulting damage necessitated landing in the potato field adjoining the field being sprayed.

Damage

The airplane sustained substantial damage from the collision with the pivot and the subsequent landing in the field. The extent of the damage required the aircraft to be removed from service for repair.