N1619S

On May 12, 1997, at approximately 1200 central daylight time, a Snow S2C agricultural airplane, N1619S, was substantially damaged following a loss of control while landing near Hondo, Texas. The commercial pilot, sole occupant of the airplane, was not injured. The airplane, owned and operated by Rusty's Flying Service, of Hondo, Texas, was being operated under Title 14 CFR Part 137. Visual meteorological conditions prevailed for the local aerial application flight for which a flight plan was not filed. The flight originated from the Hondo Municipal Airport, near Hondo, Texas, at approximately 1100.

According to the operator, the pilot lost directional control of the airplane after executing a wheel landing on the centerline of runway 17L. The airplane was observed exiting the right side of the runway, and remained in a right turn after exiting the runway. The left main landing gear collapsed within 30 feet after exiting the runway and the left wing and propeller struck the ground. The airplane came to rest on its left wing.

The winds at the time of the accident were reported from the southeast at 3 knots. Examination of the 1963 model airplane by the FAA inspector revealed that the airframe sustained structural damage. No pre-existing defects or anomalies were found on the landing gear or brake system of the airplane.

Numerous attempts, albeit unsuccessful, were made by the investigator-in-charge to speak to the pilot and conduct a formal interview.