Probable cause
A partial loss of engine power for reasons that could not be determined based on the available information.
NTSB analysis
The commercial pilot was applying pesticide to a field when the engine experienced a partial loss of power and did not respond to throttle inputs. The airplane collided with tall crops and subsequently came to rest inverted. Examination of the engine and associated components revealed no evidence of pre-impact mechanical malfunction, and the reason for the loss of engine power could not be determined.
Text from the NTSB. Open the NTSB docket for CEN16LA334 for the full record.
Event
- Date
- Aug 25, 2016
- Type
- Accident
- Place
- Bushton, Kansas
- Highest injury
- Serious
- Serious injuries
- 1
- Weather
- Visual (VMC)
- Light
- Day
Piper PA 25-235
- N-number
- N4963Y
- Category
- Airplane
- Year built
- 1968
- 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.