Aerial Application Flight Ends with Nose-Over in Rice Field

Incident Overview

A commercial pilot conducting an aerial application flight observed a puff of smoke emanating from the radial engine. Shortly thereafter, the airplane experienced a partial loss of engine power. The pilot attempted to land at a nearby airstrip, but during maneuvering, the airplane's descent rate was too high to make the runway. The airplane subsequently landed in a rice field.

Landing and Outcome

During the landing rollout, the airplane nosed over and came to rest in an inverted position. The accident resulted in substantial damage to the airplane's vertical fin.

Investigation Findings

The investigation was unable to determine the reason for the loss of engine power. No other causal factors were identified.