Probable cause
A loss of engine power for undetermined reasons.
NTSB analysis
The pilot had completed his first spray pass of the flight and was maneuvering for another pass when the airplane experienced a loss of engine power. The pilot attempted a restart; however, it was unsuccessful. He elected to perform a forced landing to a corn field. During the forced landing, the airplane sustained substantial damage to the wings and empennage. Examination of the airframe, disassembly of the engine, and functional testing of the engine components showed no anomalies that precluded normal operation. The reason for the loss of engine power was not determined.
Text from the NTSB. Open the NTSB docket for CEN09LA503 for the full record.
Event
- Date
- Aug 4, 2009
- Type
- Accident
- Place
- Waterloo, Iowa
- Highest injury
- None
- Weather
- Visual (VMC)
- Light
- Day
Air Tractor AT401
- N-number
- N60747
- Category
- Airplane
- Damage
- Substantial
- Operating rule
- Part 137 (agricultural)
- Purpose of flight
- Aerial application
From the NTSB aviation accident database: N-registered aircraft, events since 2008, data through Oct 28, 2026. The file is published monthly, so the latest weeks are incomplete and recent records can change. The official source is the NTSB aviation investigation search. CheckAero is independent and not affiliated with the NTSB.