Primary finding
Probable cause
The pilot’s misperception of the surrounding elevation resulting in a collision with crops and terrain.
Investigator assessment
Analysis narrative
The pilot reported that while he maneuvered to apply agricultural product to a field, he did not perceive a higher slope of crops before making an application pass. The airplane’s landing gear became entangled in the crops and the pilot could not power the airplane free. The airplane impacted terrain and came to rest upright. Substantial damage was sustained to the airplane’s left wing and empennage. The pilot reported no mechanical malfunctions contributed to the accident.