What happened
During an aerial firefighting operation, a single-engine aircraft departed from Columbia Airport to address an active fire zone. After completing a drop of fire retardant, the pilot attempted to increase engine power to climb. However, while operating in conditions of limited visibility caused by heavy smoke, the aircraft struck a line of trees.
Following the impact, the aircraft rolled to the left and crashed in an inverted position. The collision resulted in an immediate post-crash fire. There was one fatality involving the pilot, who was the only person on board the aircraft at the time of the accident.
Findings
- The aircraft was operating in an environment with reduced visibility due to the presence of smoke.
- The accident occurred during the climb phase following a retardant drop.