Incident Overview
On January 31, 2013, at approximately 0845 central standard time, an Air Tractor Inc. AT-401 airplane, registration N9190B, impacted trees and terrain during a forced landing near Victoria, Texas. The pilot, who was the sole occupant and operator, was not injured. The airplane sustained substantial damage. The flight was conducted under 14 Code of Federal Regulations Part 137 as an agricultural application operation. Day visual flight rules (VFR) conditions prevailed, and the flight did not operate on a VFR flight plan. The local flight originated from a private airstrip near Victoria, Texas, about 0835.
Sequence of Events
The pilot reported that he experienced a loss of engine power approximately eight to ten minutes into the flight. He attempted troubleshooting by trying various magneto switch positions and checking the magnetos, but these actions did not restore engine power. The power loss worsened, leading the pilot to execute a forced landing "in trees on flat terrain."
Aircraft and Engine Information
The airplane was powered by a 600-horsepower Pratt & Whitney R-1340 engine, serial number 18116. According to the pilot, the engine had accumulated 553 hours of flight time since its last overhaul and 13 hours since its most recent inspection.
Damage and Recovery
A review of images taken by a Federal Aviation Administration inspector showed substantial wing damage. A recovery company representative examined the engine upon recovery and found that the propeller was "locked" in place. The representative stated that "metal" was found in the engine oil.
Probable Cause
The investigation report did not provide a probable cause for the accident.