Probable cause
The pilot's failure to maintain directional control during the takeoff roll on a rough runway surface.
NTSB analysis
During the takeoff roll, the agricultural category airplane encountered a rough patch on the runway surface of the agricultural airstrip. The pilot then lost control of the airplane, which ground looped, departed the runway, and came to rest in an adjacent canal. The airplane sustained substantial damage to the right wing spar during the accident sequence. There was no report of a mechanical failure or malfunction.
Text from the NTSB. Open the NTSB docket for WPR09CA267 for the full record.
Event
- Date
- May 23, 2009
- Type
- Accident
- Place
- Robbins, California
- Nearest airport
- Robbins Agricultural Airstrip (PVT)
- Highest injury
- None
- Weather
- Visual (VMC)
- Light
- Day
Ayres Corporation S2R-T34
- N-number
- N3094L
- Category
- Airplane
- 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.