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Aerial Application Aircraft Strikes Trees and Comes to Rest Inverted in Bog

Pemberton Twp, NJ, United States

On July 19, 2017, a WEATHERLY 620 UNDESIGNAT operated by JERSEY DEVIL DUSTERS LLC was involved in an aviation accident near Pemberton Twp, NJ. No fatalities were reported. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: An in-flight collision with a bird during takeoff, which resulted in a partial loss of engine power and subsequent collision with trees and terrain. This summary draws on records from NTSB; 10 related events involving the same aircraft type or operator are linked below.

SourcesNTSBPrimary reportUpdated 2026-08-03Data APIEditorial standards

During takeoff, an aerial application airplane experienced decreased engine performance, leading to a forced landing into trees and a bog. Postaccident examination revealed feathers from a Canadian goose near the engine.

Accident Overview

A pilot conducting an aerial application takeoff reported that when the airplane reached approximately 15 feet above ground level, engine performance decreased. The pilot verified the engine controls were full forward and activated the fuel boost pump. After releasing the hopper load, performance continued to decline. The pilot opted for a straight-ahead landing, but the airplane struck trees before coming to rest inverted in a bog.

Damage and Examination

Postaccident inspection revealed substantial damage to the fuselage and wings. After the airplane was recovered from the bog, a Federal Aviation Administration inspector found feathers associated with a Canadian goose in the vicinity of the engine and the damaged propeller.

Pilot Statement

The pilot reported no preimpact mechanical failures or malfunctions with the airframe or engine that would have precluded normal operation.

Contributing factors

Ability to respond/compensate

Related events

Same aircraft family

Same operator

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 19 Jul 2017 WEATHERLY 620 UNDESIGNAT accident near Pemberton Twp, NJ?

During takeoff, an aerial application airplane experienced decreased engine performance, leading to a forced landing into trees and a bog. Postaccident examination revealed feathers from a Canadian goose near the engine.

Were there any fatalities in the 19 Jul 2017 WEATHERLY 620 UNDESIGNAT accident?

No fatalities were recorded in this accident.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 19 Jul 2017 involved a WEATHERLY 620 UNDESIGNAT, operated by JERSEY DEVIL DUSTERS LLC, at Pemberton Twp, NJ.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

An in-flight collision with a bird during takeoff, which resulted in a partial loss of engine power and subsequent collision with trees and terrain.

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