Probable cause
The pilot’s failure to maintain clearance from terrain while maneuvering at low altitude.
NTSB analysis
The pilot reported that while maneuvering at low altitude during aerial application to a field, he noticed power lines. He pushed the control stick forward to maneuver the airplane underneath the power lines and then attempted to pull back on the control stick; however, due to the proximity to the ground, the airplane impacted terrain. The fuselage and left wing sustained substantial damage. The pilot reported that there were no preaccident mechanical malfunctions or failures with the airplane that would have precluded normal operation.
Text from the NTSB. Open the NTSB docket for CEN25LA336 for the full record.
Event
- Date
- Aug 23, 2025
- Type
- Accident
- Place
- Argusville, North Dakota
- Nearest airport
- Dakota Airport (NA60)
- Highest injury
- None
- Weather
- Visual (VMC)
- Light
- Day
Piper PA-25-235
- N-number
- N7239Z
- Category
- Airplane
- Year built
- 1965
- 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.