Primary finding
Probable cause
The pilot’s failure to maintain clearance from a power line pole while preparing for a low-level aerial application pass.
Investigator assessment
Analysis narrative
The pilot reported that while maneuvering the airplane to set a starting line for aerial application to a field, the airplane’s right main landing gear struck a power line pole. The pilot immediately returned to the airport. Upon landing, the left main landing gear collapsed. The airplane sustained substantial damage to the fuselage and right wing. The pilot did not report any preaccident failures or malfunctions with the airplane that would have precluded normal operations.