Primary finding
Probable cause
The pilot's inadequate survey of the aerial application field which resulted in a collision with a windmill.
Investigator assessment
Analysis narrative
During a pass of the aerial application flight, the airplane collided with a windmill at the edge of the field. The airplane sustained substantial damage to the left wing. The pilot reported no pre-impact mechanical failures or malfunctions with the airframe or engine that would have precluded normal operation. In addition, the pilot stated he did not observe the windmill during his survey of the field prior to beginning the application to field.
Source record
Factual narrative
During a pass of the aerial application flight, the airplane collided with a windmill at the edge of the field. The airplane sustained substantial damage to the left wing. The pilot reported no pre-impact mechanical failures or malfunctions with the airframe or engine that would have precluded normal operation. In addition, the pilot stated he did not observe the windmill during his survey of the field prior to beginning the application to field.