What happened
During an aerial firefighting mission in the Columbia, California region, a single-pilot operation resulted in a fatal accident. The aircraft was engaged in dropping fire retardant on an active forest fire. According to reports, the flight maintained a stable and level approach toward the designated drop zone.
Immediately following the release of the retardant, the pilot attempted to climb. During this maneuver, the aircraft collided with trees, causing the plane to roll to the left. The impact resulted in the aircraft crashing in an inverted position. The pilot, who was the only person on board, sustained fatal injuries in the accident.
Findings
- The aircraft struck trees during a climb following a retardant drop.
- The impact caused the aircraft to roll and land upside down.