Primary finding
Probable cause
The pilot's selection of unsuitable terrain for landing.
Investigator assessment
Analysis narrative
The pilot was landing on a private grass strip that had not been used for several weeks during which time the grass had grown "considerably". Upon landing, the tall grass caught the left spray boom which resulted in the airplane traveling off the side of the runway into a wheat field. The pilot reported the airplane traveled 25 to 30 feet after contacting the tall grass, and it came to rest 90 degrees from the touchdown heading. The right wing and empennage were substantially damaged during the event.
Source record
Factual narrative
The pilot was landing on a private grass strip that had not been used for several weeks during which time the grass had grown "considerably". Upon landing, the tall grass caught the left spray boom which resulted in the airplane traveling off the side of the runway into a wheat field. The pilot reported the airplane traveled 25 to 30 feet after contacting the tall grass, and it came to rest 90 degrees from the touchdown heading. The right wing and empennage were substantially damaged during the event.