Primary finding
Probable cause
The partial loss of engine power for undetermined reasons. The sandy terrain was a factor.
Investigator assessment
Analysis narrative
The engine lost partial power during the takeoff roll. The pilot aborted the takeoff; however, he could not stop the aircraft prior to over-running the runway and nosing over in sand. Post crash examination of the engine revealed no reason for the loss of engine power.
Source record
Factual narrative
On June 27, 1994, about 0900 central daylight time, an Air Tractor AT-401, N45332, registered to Broadway and Freiman Aircraft, nosed over during an aborted takeoff from the Delta Dusters, Inc. strip at Walls, Mississippi, while on a 14 CFR Part 137 aerial application flight. Visual meteorological conditions prevailed at the time and no flight plan was filed. The aircraft received substantial damage and the commercial-rated pilot received minor injuries. The flight was originating at the time of the accident. The pilot stated the engine began to "spit and sputter" and lose power during the takeoff roll. He aborted the takeoff; however, he was unable to stop the aircraft before over running the runway and nosing over in sand. Postcrash examination of the engine by the operator indicated the carburetor contained clean fuel. The engine assembly rotated freely and there was no evidence to indicate cylinder malfunction or failure. -