Accident Details
On May 10, 2008, at 1838 Pacific daylight time, a Thrush S-2R, registration N8860Q, sustained substantial damage during a forced landing in a field near Holtville, California. The aircraft was operated by DS Dusters, Inc. under 14 Code of Federal Regulations Part 137. Visual meteorological conditions prevailed, and no flight plan was filed. The commercial pilot, who was the sole occupant, sustained minor injuries.
Pilot Account
According to the pilot, after completing the initial spray pass over the field, he entered a turn and noticed a loss of available power. He scanned the instruments but observed no anomalies. During the second pass, the power loss persisted. On the third pass, the loss of power became excessive. The pilot added throttle, and the engine responded, but the oil temperature then increased rapidly. Unable to sustain altitude, the pilot executed a forced landing in a field. The engine was still turning just prior to impact. During the landing, the engine separated from the airframe, and the right wing was crushed.
Post-Accident Examination
Examination of the Pratt and Whitney R-1340 engine revealed internal thermal damage. The oil tank was full, the oil lines were clear, and manual activation of the oil pump with subsequent visual inspection showed no mechanical anomalies.