Accident Details
On June 6, 2013, at 1325 central daylight time, a Grumman G164B agricultural airplane, registration N6754Q, operated by Cassody Flying Service LLC of Covington, Oklahoma, was substantially damaged when it collided with terrain shortly after departing from Cade's Airport (0OK8), Covington, Oklahoma. The commercial pilot, who was the sole occupant, reported no injuries.
Flight Information
The flight was conducted under Part 137 of the Federal Code of Regulations for aerial application. Visual meteorological conditions prevailed at the time, and no flight plan was filed. The flight originated at 1324 from Cade's Airport. The pilot stated that prior to takeoff, he taxied to the end of the grass runway, performed engine power checks, and cycled the propeller. No malfunctions were observed, so he advanced the throttle to takeoff power and released the brakes. The airplane accelerated south along the grass strip, the tail wheel lifted, and airspeed increased. After the main landing gear left the runway, the airplane steadily gained altitude and airspeed.
Maneuver and Descent
At approximately 30 feet above ground level (AGL), the pilot initiated a gentle right turn to the west, aiming toward an open cornfield to avoid overflying a house at the end of the runway. After leveling the wings, the pilot sensed the airplane was "a little sluggish," which he attributed to the loaded chemicals. He pulled back on the control stick to gain altitude but observed that the airplane was not climbing. A tree line at the edge of the cornfield approached rapidly, and altitude continued to decrease. The pilot checked the engine RPM and manifold pressure gauges; they showed no loss of power, and he heard no change in engine sound. After increasing throttle, he saw in his peripheral vision the left wing tip strike the ground, felt a hard bump, and the airplane turned left. The airplane then rolled wings level, and the right wing struck the ground. Subsequently, the pilot found himself inverted, suspended by his shoulder harness. He released the restraint and exited through the cockpit door.
Post-Accident Examination
Examination of the engine and airframe after the accident revealed no anomalies that may have contributed to the event. The pilot reported that the fuel tanks were topped off before the flight and that the hopper contained a full load of chemicals. He noted wind was not a factor, with easterly winds at about 5 knots and no gusts. The temperature was moderate at 81°F. The estimated takeoff weight was below the maximum gross weight.
Maintenance Records
A review of the maintenance logbooks for the preceding 360 days showed no annotations of uncorrected airframe or engine issues before the flight. The most recent annual inspection had been performed on April 1, 2013.