Accident Overview
A crop-dusting aircraft conducting chemical work to protect sunflower crops from pests suffered an engine power loss shortly after takeoff. This was the eighth sortie of the day for the crew.
Sequence of Events
While climbing to an altitude of 20 to 30 meters, the engine lost power, causing the aircraft to begin losing altitude. No suitable terrain was available for an emergency landing. The airplane subsequently collided with trees and crashed in a wooded area, bursting into flames.
Occupant Status and Damage
Both crew members escaped uninjured. The aircraft was totally destroyed by the post-crash fire.
Probable Cause
The immediate cause of the accident was a forced landing caused by a loss of engine power on unsuitable terrain. The most likely cause of the loss of engine power is the use of a low quality A-95 motor gasoline.