Probable cause
A partial loss of engine power during low-altitude flight for undetermined reasons.
NTSB analysis
The pilot was conducting an aerial application flight when he observed a puff of smoke from the radial engine. The engine then experienced a partial loss of power and the pilot attempted to land at a nearby airstrip. While maneuvering to land, the airplane's descent rate did not allow for a landing on the airstrip and the pilot subsequently landed in a rice field. During the landing roll, the airplane nosed over and sustained substantial damage to its vertical fin. The reason for the loss of engine power could not be determined.
Text from the NTSB. Open the NTSB docket for CEN10CA582 for the full record.
Event
- Date
- Sep 17, 2010
- Type
- Accident
- Place
- Atkins, Arkansas
- Highest injury
- None
- Weather
- Visual (VMC)
- Light
- Day
Air Tractor Inc AT-301
- N-number
- N2309F
- 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.