On 26 Mar 2008, an Air Tractor At-301 operated by Shannon L. Dickson was involved in an aviation accident near Plains, KS. No fatalities were reported. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: A loss of engine power as a result of a blocked carburetor. A factor was the lack of suitable terrain for the forced landing. This summary draws on records from NTSB; 12 related events involving the same aircraft type or operator are linked below.
A commercial pilot repositioning a single-engine agricultural airplane experienced an engine power loss on final approach. The pilot performed a forced landing but flipped over after braking to avoid a sprinkler, damaging the vertical stabilizer and rudder. Investigation revealed a loose intake hose blocked the carburetor.
Incident Overview
A commercial pilot was repositioning a single-engine agricultural airplane to a private grass strip when the engine lost power while on final approach. The pilot was unable to maintain altitude and conducted a forced landing to the only suitable field available.
Forced Landing and Overturn
During the landing rollout, the pilot applied the brakes to avoid colliding with a large sprinkler apparatus. The aircraft subsequently flipped over, resulting in substantial damage to the vertical stabilizer and rudder.
Post-Incident Examination
An examination of the radial engine by the operator revealed that the flexible intake hose had come loose and was ingested into the carburetor, blocking the throat of the carburetor.