Probable cause
The pilot's failure to maintain directional control during an aborted takeoff.
NTSB analysis
The pilot was attempting to take off for an agricultural application flight with the airplane loaded near gross weight. During the takeoff roll, the pilot thought that the airplane would not attain flight. The pilot aborted the takeoff about halfway down the runway without dumping the load of agricultural applicant. With about 400 feet of runway remaining, the pilot applied reverse thrust, and the airplane ground looped. Examination of the airplane revealed no preimpact mechanical malfunctions or failures with the airplane that would have precluded normal operation.
Text from the NTSB. Open the NTSB docket for CEN12LA344 for the full record.
Event
- Date
- Jun 4, 2012
- Type
- Accident
- Place
- Kenmare, North Dakota
- Nearest airport
- Kenmare Municipal Airport (7K5)
- Highest injury
- None
- Weather
- Visual (VMC)
- Light
- Day
Air Tractor AT401
- N-number
- N4547Q
- 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.