Introduction
On August 13, 2008, an Air Tractor AT-301B (registration N3161D) collided with trees during an off-airport forced landing near Monticello, Iowa. The pilot, who was the sole occupant, received minor injuries. The aircraft sustained substantial damage to its wings.
Flight Details
The flight was conducted under Title 14 Code of Federal Regulations Part 137 for aerial application. Visual meteorological conditions prevailed, and no flight plan was filed. The flight originated from Monticello Regional Airport (MXO) at 1235 central daylight time. The accident occurred at approximately 1430.
Events Leading to the Accident
According to the pilot, he had completed the aerial application portion of the flight and was returning to Monticello Regional Airport when the engine suddenly lost power. At the time, the airplane was at an altitude of about 200 feet above ground level. With no suitable landing area, the pilot executed a forced landing into trees.
Pilot Report and Inspection
The pilot reported having approximately 75 gallons of fuel on board at takeoff and estimated the aircraft's fuel consumption at about 40 gallons per hour. He later told a Monticello Police Sergeant that he believed the airplane had run out of fuel. An inspection of the accident site revealed that the fuel tanks were ruptured and empty. First responders noted there was no detectable odor of fuel having leaked from the aircraft.
Damage
The airplane received substantial damage to its wings. The pilot's minor injuries were the only reported harm.