N5128N

Substantial
None

AIR TRACTOR INC AT 402S/N: 402A-1054

Accident Details

Date
Saturday, May 19, 2018
NTSB Number
GAA18CA309
Location
Nicolaus, CA
Event ID
20180529X83333
Coordinates
38.932777, -121.496665
Aircraft Damage
Substantial
Highest Injury
None
Fatalities
0
Serious Injuries
0
Minor Injuries
0
Uninjured
1
Total Aboard
1

Probable Cause and Findings

The pilot’s failure to maintain adequate clearance from a power transmission wire.

Aircraft Information

Registration
Make
AIR TRACTOR INC
Serial Number
402A-1054
Engine Type
Turbo-prop
Year Built
1998
Model / ICAO
AT 402F402
Aircraft Type
Fixed Wing Single Engine
No. of Engines
1
Seats
1
FAA Model
AT-402A

Registered Owner (Current)

Name
BASIN AVIATION INC
Address
PO BOX 154
City
RIO OSO
State / Zip Code
CA 95674-0154
Country
United States

Analysis

The pilot reported that, during an aerial application flight, he observed a power transmission wire with no obstructions underneath. He added that he turned around to enter the spray field under the wire, where he observed one wire sagging lower than the other wires. While flying under the power transmission wire, he encountered turbulence, and decided to lower the nose to prevent being pushed into the wire. The tail went up and struck the power transmission wire.

The airplane sustained substantial damage to the vertical stabilizer and rudder.

The pilot reported that there were no preaccident mechanical failures or malfunctions with the airplane that would have precluded normal operation.

The pilot reported in the NTSB 6120.1 Form that the wind was calm.

Data Source

Data provided by the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB). For more information on this event, visit the NTSB Records Search website. NTSB# GAA18CA309