What happened
During an aerial seeding operation over a flooded rice paddy, the pilot was performing several passes to distribute seed along the banks of a river. The area was bordered by dense timber on the western side and a line of trees on the eastern bank. After an initial inspection, two ground markers were positioned to assist with the flight path.
The sequence of maneuvers involved alternating runs toward the east and west. During one of the later passes, while attempting to maintain visibility of both ground markers, the pilot increased the aircraft's altitude to approximately 100 feet above the tree line. As the aircraft began a steep descent to align for an eastern run, it struck the upper branches of a tree that extended significantly higher than the surrounding canopy. This impact caused the starboard elevator to be severed from the aircraft.
Following the loss of the elevator, the aircraft entered a steep left roll without any noticeable reduction in engine power. The aircraft continued its descent and collided with another tree on the eastern side of the river. The impact tore the wings and empennage from the airframe, causing the fuselage to drop through the trees and ignite upon hitting the ground.
Findings
- The loss of control was initiated by the striking of an elevated tree branch which destroyed a primary flight control surface.
- The operation was being conducted with a very narrow margin for error regarding obstacle clearance.