Overview
On April 7, 2009, at 1206 central daylight time, an Air Tractor AT-301 airplane, registration N36597, was substantially damaged during a forced landing following a loss of engine power. The accident occurred near Corning, Arkansas. The commercial pilot was not injured. The flight was conducted under Title 14 Code of Federal Regulations Part 91 without a flight plan. The cross-country flight originated from Corning Municipal Airport (4M9), Corning, Arkansas. Visual meteorological conditions prevailed at the time.
Aircraft and Pilot Information
The pilot had just purchased the airplane, and the accident flight was his first in that specific aircraft. Prior to departure, he and a mechanic examined the airplane and noted no anomalies with the airframe or engine. The pilot started the engine and allowed it to idle and warm up for fifteen minutes before taxiing. He reported that the preflight inspection and engine run-up were normal.
Accident Sequence
Shortly after initial takeoff, the engine "popped" several times and then stopped producing power. The pilot executed a forced landing in a rice field off the departure end of the runway. Post-accident examination of the airplane revealed a cracked number one cylinder head.
Post-Accident Examination
Examination of the airplane showed damage to the left aileron and both horizontal stabilizers, which were bent downward. The cracked cylinder head could not be examined further, and the cause of the failure was not determined.