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NTSB Report
August 2, 2012 · Piper PA-25-260 · N6802L
Alexander, NY
Overview
Report Status
Final with probable cause
Event Type
Accident
Date
August 2, 2012
Injury Outcomes
No injuries (1 uninjured)
Location
Alexander, NY
Aircraft
Piper PA-25-260
Tail Number
N6802L
Operator
Louis C Christie
Injuries
None
Aircraft Damage
Substantial
NTSB Number
ERA12CA495
The pilot reported that while spraying a cornfield, he saw two wires that he did not know were there. When the pilot saw the wires, the airplane was too close to the wires to climb over them. He then flew under the wires; however, the airplane impacted rolling terrain below the wires, bounced into the air, stalled, and came to rest in trees adjacent to the field. Examination of the wreckage revealed substantial damage to both wing spars. The pilot did not report any preimpact mechanical malfunctions that would have precluded normal operation.
NTSB Probable Cause
The pilot's inadequate visual lookout and failure to maintain altitude during aerial application, which resulted in controlled flight into terrain.
Full Narrative
The pilot reported that while spraying a cornfield, he saw two wires that he did not know were there. When the pilot saw the wires, they were too close for the airplane to climb over them. He then flew under the wires; however, the airplane impacted rolling terrain below the wires, bounced into the air, stalled, and came to rest in trees adjacent to the field. Examination of the wreckage by a Federal Aviation Administration inspector revealed damage to both wing spars. The inspector did not observe any preimpact mechanical malfunctions, nor did the pilot report any.
Flight
Event TypeAccident
Event Time10:30 EDT
Nearest Airport0nm
Flight Plan FiledNone
Flight Plan ActivatedNo
Aircraft FireNo
Aircraft ExplosionNo
Aircraft
AircraftPiper PA-25-260
Tail NumberN6802L
Aircraft CategoryAir
DamageSubstantial
OperatorLouis C Christie
Operating RulePart 137
Engines1
Engine TypeReciprocating
Engine DetailsLycoming · O-540 · Reciprocating · 260
Seats1
People & Injuries
Injury SummaryNo injuries (1 uninjured)
Fatal0
Serious0
Minor0
Uninjured1
Total1
Crew 1Age 48 · Second Class · None
Conditions
ConditionsVMC
LightDaylight
Wind210° @ 5 kt
Visibility10 sm
CeilingBroken clouds 25000 ft
Temperature / Dew Point66 F
Altimeter29.89 inHg
Observation Time14:54
Weather SourceWFAC