The Air Tractor 402B pilot reported that he was reading a map in an effort to identify the correct field to spray while maneuvering at low altitude in dark night conditions near Wellton, Ariz.
While maneuvering in a turn he didn’t realize the airplane was descending and it subsequently collided with terrain. The wings and fuselage were substantially damaged.
The NTSB determined the probable cause as the pilot’s distracted attention and failure to maintain sufficient altitude to clear terrain while maneuvering in dark night conditions.
NTSB Identification: WPR14CA003
This October 2013 accident report is provided by the National Transportation Safety Board. Published as an educational tool, it is intended to help pilots learn from the misfortunes of others.
In “dark night conditions”.
You gotta be kiddin’ me?