Primary finding
Probable cause
The cracked cylinder which resulted in a forced landing. The lack of suitable terrain on which to make an emergency landing was a factor.
Investigator assessment
Analysis narrative
Aerial applicator was conducting spray operation when engine began to run intermittently. Field was not suitable for landing so he elected to attempt landing on a road behind a grain truck which was travelling in the same direction that he was going to land. Just before touchdown, engine caught and gave him a short burst of power. Airplane accelerated momentarily and landed in the bed of the grain truck, then fell off, and came to a stop.
Source record
Factual narrative
-