Accident Details
A student agricultural pilot, operating under the supervision of an instructor, was conducting a flight from an airstrip. After takeoff, the aircraft was turning in a valley to gain altitude in order to clear high terrain situated between the airstrip and the intended sowing area. Witnesses reported hearing a misfire from the engine and observing the aircraft lose height as it turned to avoid some high ground. The aircraft subsequently collided with a hillside and caught fire. The pilot, who was the sole occupant, was killed. The aircraft was destroyed in the accident.
Investigation Findings
The official investigation determined that the aircraft experienced a temporary loss of engine power at a critical time after takeoff. The specific cause of the power loss could not be identified, but investigators noted that fuel contamination may have been a contributing factor. No other causes were established.
Probable Cause
The probable cause, as stated by the investigating authority, is that the aircraft suffered a temporary loss of engine power at a critical time after takeoff. The cause of the power loss was not determined, but may have been fuel contamination.