19 May 2018: AIR TRACTOR INC AT 402 A — ARENA PESTICIDE MANAGEMENT INC

19 May 2018: AIR TRACTOR INC AT 402 A — ARENA PESTICIDE MANAGEMENT INC

No fatalities • Nicolaus, CA, United States

Probable cause

The pilot’s failure to maintain adequate clearance from a power transmission wire.

— NTSB Determination

Accident narrative

The pilot reported that, during an aerial application flight, he observed a power transmission wire with no obstructions underneath. He added that he turned around to enter the spray field under the wire, where he observed one wire sagging lower than the other wires. While flying under the power transmission wire, he encountered turbulence, and decided to lower the nose to prevent being pushed into the wire. The tail went up and struck the power transmission wire.

The airplane sustained substantial damage to the vertical stabilizer and rudder.

The pilot reported that there were no preaccident mechanical failures or malfunctions with the airplane that would have precluded normal operation.

The pilot reported in the NTSB 6120.1 Form that the wind was calm.

Contributing factors

  • cause Incorrect use/operation
  • cause Pilot
  • cause Effect on operation

Conditions

Weather
VMC, wind 150/10kt, vis 10sm

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