Accident Overview
On April 1, 2011, at approximately 1200 Pacific daylight time, a Cessna A188B (registration N5851G) collided with terrain during an aerial application flight near Palouse, Washington. Dale’s Flying Service operated the airplane under 14 Code of Federal Regulations Part 137. The commercial pilot sustained serious injuries, and the airplane sustained substantial damage to the wings and fuselage from impact forces. Visual meteorological conditions prevailed, and no flight plan had been filed.
Pilot Report
According to the pilot, he was on his second pass applying dry fertilizer to a field. The field featured steeply rising terrain at the end of his run, specifically a ridge line. During the turn out, the pilot reported a loss of lift from his right bank and gusty wind conditions, which carried the airplane toward trees at the edge of the field. The airplane did not have enough power to climb over the trees, and despite the pilot's efforts to maneuver away, the airplane collided with the trees.
Aircraft Damage
The Cessna A188B sustained substantial damage to its wings and fuselage as a result of the collision with trees and subsequent contact with terrain.