On 10 May 2011, an AIR TRACTOR INC AT-301 operated by ANF AIR SERVICE INC was involved in an aviation accident near Garwood, TX. No fatalities were reported. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The pilot's failure to maintain adequate clearance from transmission wires during a low-level maneuvering flight. This summary draws on records from NTSB; 12 related events involving the same aircraft type or operator are linked below.
While applying applicant to a field, a pilot encountered a wind gust that shifted the aircraft toward transmission wires. The wires struck the propeller and vertical fin, leading to loss of control and terrain impact, resulting in substantial damage.
Accident Details
According to a Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) inspector, the pilot reported that he was maneuvering at low altitude to apply applicant to a field. Transmission wires were located near the beginning of his job area. The pilot stated that while overflying the wires, the airplane encountered a gust of wind which shifted the airplane's flight path towards the wires. The pilot unsuccessfully attempted to fly under the wires. The wires struck the airplane's propeller and vertical fin. Aircraft control was lost and the airplane impacted terrain.
Damage
Substantial damage was sustained to the fuselage, both wings, the vertical fin, and empennage.
Mechanical Condition
According to the FAA inspector, the pilot did not report any mechanical malfunctions prior to the collision.