Primary finding
Probable cause
The pilot's failure to maintain clearance from utility wires during low altitude maneuvers.
Investigator assessment
Analysis narrative
The pilot of an Air Tractor AT-402B stated that he was making east and west passes above a cornfield, maneuvering under power lines at one end. On his last pass, the vertical stabilizer contacted a power line, shearing the upper section of the stabilizer and the entire rudder. The pilot was able to land the airplane at a nearby airport without further incident. The pilot further stated that there were no mechanical failures or malfunctions to the airplane or any of its systems prior to the accident.
Source record
Factual narrative
The pilot of an Air Tractor AT-402B stated he was making east and west passes above a cornfield, maneuvering under power lines at one end. On his last pass, the vertical stabilizer contacted a power line, shearing the upper section of the stabilizer and the entire rudder. The pilot was able to land the airplane at a nearby airport without further incident. The pilot further stated there were no mechanical failures or malfunctions to the airplane or any of its systems prior to the accident.