Accident Details
On May 18, 2024, at approximately 2015 central daylight time, an Air Tractor AT-502, registration N15189, was substantially damaged during a forced landing near Covert, Kansas. The pilot, the sole occupant, was not injured. The flight was conducted under Title 14 Code of Federal Regulations Part 137 as an agricultural application operation.
Aircraft and Pilot Information
The aircraft involved was an Air Tractor AT-502, a single-engine agricultural airplane. The pilot reported no preexisting mechanical issues before the flight.
Sequence of Events
According to the pilot, while executing a turnaround after completing his second swath run, he felt the tail of the aircraft drop. He then observed that all engine gauges except the Interstage Turbine Temperature (ITT) gauge were indicating past their redline limits. The pilot attempted to reduce engine power but found that the engine did not respond to movements of the power lever. He subsequently initiated an off-field landing onto a nearby gravel road. During the landing roll, the airplane impacted tree branches and ground looped into a roadside ditch. The impact caused substantial damage to both wings. After the aircraft came to rest, the pilot was able to reduce engine power by moving the Start Control Lever to the Fuel Cut-Off “C” position.
Examination
The wreckage was retained for further examination. No probable cause has been determined from available information.