Probable cause
The mechanical failure of the engine power section, which resulted in a loss of engine power.
NTSB analysis
The pilot reported that the engine started running roughly about 8 to 10 minutes into an agricultural application flight. He tried various magneto switch positions to troubleshoot the problem; however, the engine continued to lose power, so the pilot executed a forced landing in trees on flat terrain. Postaccident engine examinations revealed that the engine's propeller was locked in place due to a failure in the engine power section.
Text from the NTSB. Open the NTSB docket for CEN13LA152 for the full record.
Event
- Date
- Jan 31, 2013
- Type
- Accident
- Place
- Victoria, Texas
- Highest injury
- None
- Weather
- Visual (VMC)
- Light
- Day
Air Tractor Inc AT-401
- N-number
- N9190B
- 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.