Accident Sequence
A commercial-rated pilot with 30,000 flight hours was conducting an agricultural application pass. While flying downwind at approximately 50 feet above ground level at the end of the field, the engine lost power. The pilot performed a straight-ahead landing, during which the aircraft struck two levees and a canal bank before coming to rest inverted.
Damage and Injuries
The aircraft sustained substantial damage to both wings, the empennage, and tail surfaces. The pilot, the sole occupant, received minor injuries.
Investigation
A Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) inspector responded to the accident scene. A visual inspection of the fuel in the aircraft and in the operator's supply facilities indicated that the fuel was clean and uncontaminated. The cause of the loss of engine power could not be determined.
Weather Conditions
Meteorological conditions at the time of the accident were reported as 10 statute miles visibility, few clouds at 3,700 feet, southerly winds at 14 knots gusting to 21 knots, temperature 90°F, and dew point 72°F.