What happened
While performing a takeoff maneuver, a topdressing aircraft impacted a low-lying hill. The collision occurred during the initial phase of flight, immediately following the contact with the terrain. Following the impact, the pilot was unable to maintain control of the aircraft, leading to a subsequent crash. The impact with the ground resulted in the total destruction of the airframe.
Findings
- The pilot sustained serious injuries during the accident sequence.
- The primary factor in the loss of control was the collision with the hill during the takeoff phase.