On 9 Jun 2015, an AIR TRACTOR INC AT 401 UNDESIGNAT operated by Cedar Butte Air, Inc. was involved in an aviation accident near Wall, SD. No fatalities were reported. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The pilot's failure to adjust the airplane's useful load to compensate for the high temperature, which resulted in an insufficient climb rate to clear surrounding terrain, and a runway excursion. This summary draws on records from NTSB; 12 related events involving the same aircraft type or operator are linked below.
During takeoff from a private grass airstrip, the airplane failed to climb above terrain and impacted a wheat field. The pilot cited heavy load and high temperature as factors. Substantial damage occurred.
Overview
A pilot reported an accident during a takeoff from a private grass airstrip. According to the pilot, the airplane would not climb above the terrain at the departure end of the runway. The airplane subsequently impacted the ground and came to rest in a wheat field.
Pilot's Account
The pilot stated that the outside air temperature at the time of the accident was 91 degrees Fahrenheit. He also reported that the airplane was loaded near its maximum gross takeoff weight of 6,000 pounds. In his statement, the pilot said, "The load was too heavy for the weather conditions at this time." He further noted that there were no preimpact mechanical failures or malfunctions with the airframe or engine that would have precluded normal operation.
Damage Assessment
The accident resulted in substantial damage to the aircraft. Specifically, the right wing, right aileron, and fuselage sustained damage.