Accident Details
Probable Cause and Findings
The pilot's delay in aborting a takeoff after hitting a soft spot (sand) in the runway resulting in the airplane going off the end of the runway and colliding with trees. Contributing to the accident was the pilots decision to attempt the flight in an over weight condition.
Aircraft Information
Registered Owner (Historical)
Analysis
On December 6, 2000, at about 0630 eastern standard time, an Air Tractor AT-602, N9046D, registered to AG Pilots Inc., operated by Thrash Aviation as a 14 CFR Part 137 aerial application flight crashed on takeoff from a private strip in the vicinity of Clarksville, Florida. Visual meteorological conditions prevailed and no flight plan was filed. The airplane sustained substantial damage. The pilot reported no injuries. The flight was originating at the time of the accident.
The pilot stated the aircraft was slightly over weight and attempted a takeoff from a 1,500-foot strip. During the takeoff roll the airplane hit some soft dirt/sand and slowed down. He aborted the takeoff, went off the end of the runway and collided with trees.
Data Source
Data provided by the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB). For more information on this event, visit the NTSB Records Search website. NTSB# MIA01LA036