Air Tractor Inc AT 502B N502JS accident near Princeton, California

Probable cause

The partial loss of engine power during takeoff for reasons that could not be determined because postaccident examination did not reveal any anomalies that would have precluded normal operation.

NTSB analysis

The pilot reported that, during takeoff from a dirt airstrip, the airplane lifted off normally but that, when it reached an altitude of about 10 to 15 ft above the ground, it felt like the engine was experiencing a partial loss of power. The airplane then settled toward the ground. The pilot added full power, but it still felt like the engine was only producing partial power. Subsequently, the airplane impacted the ground and came to rest upright. Postaccident examination of the airframe and engine revealed no evidence of preexisting mechanical malfunctions or failures that would have precluded normal operation. The engine was test run at various power settings with no anomalies noted.

Text from the NTSB. Open the NTSB docket for WPR14LA245 for the full record.