No fatalities

Agricultural Airplane Noses Over After Failed Takeoff from Private Airstrip

Charleston, MO, United States

On May 15, 2009, an AIR TRACTOR AT-602 operated by Thompson Flying Service, LLC was involved in an aviation accident near Charleston, MO. No fatalities were reported. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The pilot's failure to abort the takeoff resulting in a runway overrun and impact with terrain. This summary draws on records from NTSB; 12 related events involving the same aircraft type or operator are linked below.

SourcesNTSBPrimary reportUpdated 2026-08-03Data APIEditorial standards

An agricultural airplane carrying potash failed to become airborne during takeoff from a private airstrip, impacting crops and terrain. The airplane nosed over and came to rest inverted. The pilot reported no memory of the accident.

Accident Narrative

Witnesses reported that the agricultural airplane attempted to depart a private airstrip with a load of potash but never made it off the ground. The airplane impacted crops and terrain located at the end of the runway, nosed over, and came to rest inverted. The pilot stated that they did not remember any of the accident. The flight was one of several completed that day and the day before.

Aircraft Information

The estimated weight of the airplane at the time of takeoff was 11,200 lbs, and the airplane's maximum gross weight was 12,500 lbs. Postaccident examination revealed no anomalies with the airplane.

Runway Information

The runway is approximately 1/2 mile in length, with 1,600 feet of asphalt and the remaining surface consisting of grass/turf.

Damage

The rudder was crushed and the engine separated from the airframe.

Contributing factors

Incorrect use/operationPilot

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 15 May 2009 AIR TRACTOR AT-602 accident near Charleston, MO?

An agricultural airplane carrying potash failed to become airborne during takeoff from a private airstrip, impacting crops and terrain. The airplane nosed over and came to rest inverted. The pilot reported no memory of the accident.

Were there any fatalities in the 15 May 2009 AIR TRACTOR AT-602 accident?

No fatalities were recorded in this accident.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 15 May 2009 involved an AIR TRACTOR AT-602, operated by Thompson Flying Service, LLC, at Charleston, MO.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The pilot's failure to abort the takeoff resulting in a runway overrun and impact with terrain.