Probable cause
The loss of engine power for reasons that could not be determined because postaccident examination of the engine did not reveal any anomalies that would have precluded normal operation.
NTSB analysis
The pilot reported that the airplane’s engine surged and lost power during cruise flight. The pilot stated that he was unable to attain a climb rate and that the emergency procedures he used did not affect the surging or loss of engine power. The pilot landed the airplane on a field immersed in water. An examination of the engine and overspeed governor did not identify any anomalies that would account for surging or a loss of engine power. The internal corrosion found on examination of the overspeed governor was most likely due to its water immersion after the accident.
Text from the NTSB. Open the NTSB docket for CEN11LA544 for the full record.
Event
- Date
- Jul 22, 2011
- Type
- Accident
- Place
- Ullin, Illinois
- Highest injury
- Minor
- Minor injuries
- 1
- Weather
- Visual (VMC)
- Light
- Day
Air Tractor AT802
- N-number
- N396LA
- 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.