Air Tractor AT 502 N9185D accident near Pecan Gap, Texas

Probable cause

The pilot did not maintain adequate clearance from tree, which resulted in a collision with a tree and subsequent impact with terrain.

NTSB analysis

The pilot was conducting an aerial application flight. There were no witnesses to the accident, but the wreckage path was consistent with an in-flight collision with a tree near the edge of the field and subsequent impact with terrain. Examination of the wreckage revealed no mechanical anomalies that would have precluded normal operation.

An autopsy was not performed; however, a review of the pilot’s medical history and postaccident medical treatment did not reveal any evidence that a preexisting medical condition contributed to the accident.

The evidence is consistent with the pilot not maintaining adequate clearance from the tree, and the airplane’s collision with a tree and impact with terrain.

Text from the NTSB. Open the NTSB docket for CEN20LA143 for the full record.