Air Tractor Inc AT-402B N107ML accident near Pierre, South Dakota

Probable cause

The pilot’s failure to maintain clearance with the power lines while maneuvering that resulted in an in-flight collision with the power lines and impact with terrain.

NTSB analysis

During an aerial application of a field, the airplane was in a 20 to 30o descent at 140 kts when its vertical stabilizer struck a power line. The vertical stabilizer and rudder separated from the airplane, which resulted in the airplane’s uncontrolled descent and impact with the ground. The airplane sustained substantial damage to the vertical stabilizer, rudder, fuselage, and both wings. The pilot stated that he knew the location of the power line, but it was pilot error that resulted in the collision with the power line. The pilot stated there were no mechanical malfunctions or failures with the airplane before the accident.

Text from the NTSB. Open the NTSB docket for CEN25LA221 for the full record.