Accident Details
Probable Cause and Findings
The pilot's failure to maintain adequate visual lookout and clearance from the hillside. Factors contributing to the accident include the pilot's diverted attention, the hillside, and the glare from the setting sun.
Aircraft Information
Registered Owner (Historical)
Analysis
The agricultural airplane was destroyed during a post-impact ground fire following an in-flight collision with terrain. The pilot reported that the airplane impacted a hillside while he was circling around a pasture that was to be sprayed. The pilot was reportedly trying to locate a map in the cockpit when the airplane struck the hillside. The airplane was flying into the setting sun when the ground impact occurred.
Data Source
Data provided by the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB). For more information on this event, visit the NTSB Records Search website. NTSB# CHI07CA166