Primary finding
Probable cause
The pilot did not maintain a positive rate of climb.
Investigator assessment
Analysis narrative
The pilot reported that shortly after takeoff from a grass strip the aircraft could not maintain altitude and settled to the ground coming to rest inverted. Examination of the aircreft did not reveal any anomalies that could have accounted for the inability to maintain a climb.
Source record
Factual narrative
On July 7, 1995, at 1600 central daylight time, an Air Tractor AT-502, N91282, was substantially damaged during a forced landing following initial climb near Elaine, Arkansas. The commercial pilot was not injured. Visual meteorological conditions prevailed for the 14 CFR Part 137 aerial application flight. The aircraft was operated by Flying Service, Inc., and no flight plan was filed. In an interview conducted by a Federal Aviation Administration inspector, the pilot reported that shortly after takeoff, the aircraft could not maintain altitude and settled to the ground coming to rest inverted. Examination of the aircraft revealed damage to the engine, propeller, empennage, and both wings. Further examination did not reveal any anomalies that could have accounted for the inability to maintain a climb. -