Probable cause
The pilot's failure to maintain airplane pitch, power, and turn coordination while maneuvering at low altitude, resulting in an aerodynamic stall and a collision with terrain.
NTSB analysis
The pilot reported that while maneuvering at low altitude on an aerial application flight, the airplane aerodynamically stalled and impacted terrain, resulting in substantial damage to the left wing of the airplane.
The pilot reported no pre-impact mechanical failures or malfunctions that would have precluded normal operation.
Text from the NTSB. Open the NTSB docket for GAA15CA089 for the full record.
Event
- Date
- May 26, 2015
- Type
- Accident
- Place
- Polson, Montana
- Highest injury
- None
- Weather
- Visual (VMC)
- Light
- Day
Cessna 188
- N-number
- N53141
- Category
- Airplane
- Year built
- 1966
- 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.