Primary finding
Probable cause
Improper weather evaluation by the pilot in command while attempting to takeoff with a quartering tailwind associated with a nearby thunderstorm and failure of the pilot to maintain directional control.
Investigator assessment
Analysis narrative
The pilot temporarily terminated spray operations due to adverse weather then elected to takeoff with a break in the weather under no wind condition. During takeoff the airplane collided with marker barrels and sugar cane plants. The pilot stated that post accident evaluation of the wind revealed that he attempted to takeoff with a quartering tailwind.
Source record
Factual narrative
On July 10, 1995, about 1630 eastern daylight time, an Air Tractor, AT-401, N9186J, registered to Ayers Crop Dusting, Inc., crashed during takeoff from a private airstrip near Clewiston, Florida. Visual meteorological conditions prevailed at the time and no flight plan was filed, for the 14 CFR part 91 aerial application flight. The airplane was substantially damaged and the commercial-rated pilot, the sole occupant, was not injured. The flight was originating at the time of the accident. The pilot stated that before the accident he suspended operations due to thunderstorms in the area. With a break in the weather and calm wind conditions he elected to takeoff. During the takeoff ground roll he lost control of the airplane which then collided with marker barrels and sugar cane plants. The pilot further stated that post accident evaluation of the winds indicated that he attempted to takeoff with a quartering tailwind. -