Primary finding
Probable cause
The pilot's failure to maintain clearance from obstacles while maneuvering.
Investigator assessment
Analysis narrative
Near dawn, the pilot took off to perform an aerial application flight. While maneuvering over the designated field, the airplane collided with a pole. Thereafter, the pilot lost control of the airplane and crashed into the underlying field. The airplane was partially consumed by a post impact fire, and the pilot sustained a minor injury. The operator reported that during the flight the pilot had not experienced any mechanical malfunction with the airplane.
Source record
Factual narrative
Near dawn, the pilot took off to perform an aerial application flight. While maneuvering over the designated field, the airplane collided with a pole. Thereafter, the pilot lost control of the airplane and crashed into the underlying field. The airplane was partially consumed by a post impact fire, and the pilot sustained a minor injury. The pilot and the operator reported that during the 10-minute-long flight no mechanical malfunction was experienced.