On 28 Jul 2014, an AIR TRACTOR INC AT 802A A operated by Red Baron AG Service Inc was involved in an aviation accident near Hazelton, ID. No fatalities were reported. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The pilot's failure to maintain aircraft control during takeoff roll in variable wind conditions. This summary draws on records from NTSB; 12 related events involving the same aircraft type or operator are linked below.
During takeoff for an aerial application flight, a tailwheel airplane failed to lift off, prompting the pilot to jettison the load. The airplane then pitched up, stalled, and impacted the ground, sustaining substantial damage.
Accident Sequence
A pilot operating a tailwheel airplane for an aerial application flight reported that during the takeoff roll, the airplane would not lift off after rotation. The pilot then applied full flaps, but the airplane still failed to become airborne. Subsequently, the pilot jettisoned the entire load from the hopper. Immediately after the load release, the airplane pitched up. Despite the pilot's control inputs, the airplane stalled and impacted the ground.
Damage
The accident resulted in substantial damage to the wings and fuselage of the airplane.
Pilot Report
The pilot reported no preimpact mechanical malfunctions or failures with the airplane that would have precluded normal operation. The pilot added that at the time of the accident, he felt that either a downdraft or a change in wind direction occurred.