Probable cause
The reported malfunction of the aileron flight control system during takeoff for reasons that could not be determined.
NTSB analysis
The pilot stated that he performed a preflight inspection of the airplane and observed no discrepancies. While taxiing for takeoff he performed a check of the flight controls, adding there were no discrepancies and the gust lock was free. He initiated takeoff, and when the flight was 20 ft above the runway, he noted the airplane was right wing low. He applied left aileron control input but noted the control did not move. He then also applied right aileron control input, but it wouldn’t move to the right either. He aborted the takeoff and thought about dumping the load of chemical but did not. The airplane touched down on the grass portion of his runway and bounced three times. On the third bounce he reported both main landing gear collapsed. The airplane slid into the nearby field and came to rest upright. Postaccident examination of the airplane revealed substantial damage to both wings and the bottom of the fuselage. Examination of the flight control system was unable to identify any obstructions or other issues.
Text from the NTSB. Open the NTSB docket for ERA20CA232 for the full record.
Event
- Date
- Jun 27, 2020
- Type
- Accident
- Place
- Perry, Georgia
- Nearest airport
- Private (None)
- Highest injury
- None
- Weather
- Visual (VMC)
- Light
- Day
Ayres S2R
- N-number
- N4032L
- Category
- Airplane
- Year built
- 1999
- 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.