Accident Sequence
In a telephone interview with the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) Investigator-in-Charge (IIC), the pilot recounted that during the initial climb following an aerial banner pickup, the towline cable became entangled with the right horizontal stabilizer and the right elevator. Shortly thereafter, the airplane pitched downward, struck the ground, and nosed over.
Examination
A postaccident examination of the aircraft revealed substantial damage to the right-wing lift strut and the empennage. No other damage items were noted beyond those specified.
Pilot Report
The pilot reported that there were no preaccident mechanical malfunctions or failures with the airplane that would have precluded normal operation. After multiple requests, the pilot did not return the NTSB Form 6120.1 Pilot/Operator Aircraft Accident/Incident Report.