Accident Overview
A commercial pilot with no instrument rating departed on a maintenance test flight in a single-engine agricultural airplane. During the flight, the radial engine experienced a loss of power. The pilot executed a forced landing to a cotton field, during which the airplane sustained structural damage. There was no post-impact fire, and the pilot was able to egress the airplane without assistance.
Environmental Conditions
At the time of the accident, winds were reported from 040 degrees at 11 knots, gusting to 18 knots. No other weather information was provided.
Investigation Findings
An FAA inspector who traveled to the accident site confirmed that the airplane sustained structural damage during the forced landing. Additionally, the inspector reported that the aircraft had run out of fuel. Despite repeated attempts by the Investigator-In-Charge (IIC), the pilot did not return a completed Pilot Operator Aircraft Accident Report Form (NTSB Form 6120.1).