Accident Details
Witnesses observed an aircraft performing a banner pickup maneuver between two poles. The aircraft approached the poles at the correct altitude with flaps extended as prescribed. However, it appeared to be flying at a slower than normal speed for the pickup.
Maneuver Description
Procedures dictate that just before the aircraft reaches the pickup poles, the pilot should apply full power and pitch the nose up approximately 45 degrees to swing the hook into the towline strung between the poles. As the aircraft reached the poles, the engine noise did not increase and the aircraft did not pitch up enough initially to capture the towline. It did pitch to the correct 45-degree angle seconds after the miss.
Subsequent Events
The engine power did not increase as the aircraft continued to climb until it stalled, and then rolled over to the left into the ground. Investigators noted no preimpact anomalies with the engine, engine controls, or airframe.