Accident Details
During a routine aerial application flight, the pilot initiated a climbing right turn after takeoff. At approximately 100 feet above ground level, a loud "bang" was heard, followed immediately by a total loss of engine power. The pilot jettisoned the spray load and executed a forced landing straight ahead into a plowed field. After a firm touchdown, the airplane rolled a short distance before nosing over.
Pilot Actions
The pilot reported that he had conducted approximately 400 aerial application flights with the same airplane during the spray season without any prior malfunctions. On the day of the accident, the preflight inspection and takeoff were normal, with no anomalies noted.
Engine Examination
Post-accident examination of the engine revealed evidence consistent with ingestion of a foreign object, specifically impingement damage. However, further inspection did not find any breakage or missing components. The intake screen, located upstream of the damaged area, was in place and not compromised.
Maintenance History
Maintenance records indicate that the last engine maintenance was performed 10.9 flight hours before the accident. At the time of the event, the engine had accumulated 899 hours of operation since its most recent overhaul.