On 23 May 2009, an AYRES CORPORATION S2R-T34 operated by FARM AIR FLYING SERVICE INC was involved in an aviation accident near Robbins, CA. No fatalities were reported. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The pilot's failure to maintain directional control during the takeoff roll on a rough runway surface. This summary draws on records from NTSB; 14 related events involving the same aircraft type or operator are linked below.
During takeoff, an agricultural airplane hit a rough patch on the airstrip runway, resulting in a loss of control. The aircraft ground looped, departed the runway, and came to rest in a nearby canal, sustaining substantial damage to the right wing spar.
Accident Details
An agricultural category airplane was conducting a takeoff roll on an agricultural airstrip when it encountered a rough patch on the runway surface. The pilot subsequently lost control of the airplane. The aircraft ground looped, departed the runway, and came to rest in an adjacent canal.
Damage Assessment
The accident sequence caused substantial damage to the right wing spar of the airplane.
Investigation Findings
Investigators noted that there was no report of a mechanical failure or malfunction associated with the airplane. The rough patch on the runway surface and the subsequent loss of control are documented as part of the sequence of events.