Accident Overview
On June 4, 2021, at approximately 1625 eastern daylight time, an Air Tractor AT602, registration N51037, sustained substantial damage in an accident near Drew, Mississippi. The airplane was operating as a Title 14 Code of Federal Regulations Part 137 aerial application flight. The pilot, who was the sole occupant, sustained minor injuries.
Pilot Statement
The pilot reported that the aircraft had been loaded with about 4,000 pounds of dry fertilizer for the application flight, and the fuel tanks were approximately three-quarters full (150 gallons). The pilot stated that his last memory of the flight was the start of the takeoff roll. No witnesses to the accident were identified.
Aircraft Damage and Ground Evidence
A ground scar was present along the runway, with the left navigation light embedded in the scar. The airplane sustained substantial damage to its wings, ailerons, and rudder.
Systems Examination
Flight control continuity was established from the control stick to the aileron and elevator control surfaces, and from the rudder pedals to the rudder. The tailwheel lock was found engaged, and a functional test revealed no anomalies. Engine control continuity was established from the power quadrant to the engine, allowing unrestricted movement of the power lever, propeller control lever, and condition lever.
The N1 section of the engine was inspected using a borescope, and no anomalies were noted. All five blades of the propeller were bent aft, and the pitch links for the #2 and #3 blades were fractured, consistent with the engine producing power at the time of impact.