Accident Details
On June 18, 2009, at approximately 0600 Pacific daylight time, a Grumman G-164A (registration N9723) collided with terrain while maneuvering to spray a field near Yerington Municipal Airport (O43) in Yerington, Nevada. The aircraft was operated by Ag Air, Inc. under 14 CFR Part 137 as an aerial application flight. The airplane sustained structural damage. The pilot, who was the sole occupant, received minor injuries. Visual meteorological conditions prevailed at the time, and no flight plan was filed.
Pilot Report
According to the pilot, he had completed spraying a section of an onion field. He then executed a 180-degree turn to re-enter the field for another swath. After rolling wings level, he experienced a loss of aileron control, causing the airplane to settle towards the ground. He reported that pitch control remained, and he attempted to lower the nose to maintain airspeed while trying to regain aileron control. Prior to ground contact, he attempted a flare to cushion the impact. The airplane landed hard, came to a sudden stop, and came to rest inverted.
Operator Report
The operator stated that the pilot had begun applying an organic insecticide to the onion field around 0530. Weather conditions were reported as visibility greater than 10 miles, clear skies, no wind, and a temperature of 58 degrees Fahrenheit.
Inspection
A Federal Aviation Administration inspector examined the accident site. Flight control continuity was established, and mechanical continuity of the engine was confirmed.