The Air Tractor AT 502B was departing a rough, unimproved turf strip in Cavalier, N.D., for a crop dusting flight.
During the takeoff, the plane hit a small turf obstruction and became airborne prematurely. It settled and the tailwheel collided hard with the ground followed by the main landing gear.
The pilot lost control of the airplane as it porpoised and swerved to the right. He was unable to regain control of the airplane before it ground looped and the wing hit the ground.
Substantial damage was sustained to the left wing.
The NTSB determined the probable cause as the pilot’s loss of control during the takeoff roll.
NTSB Identification: CEN14CA366
This July 2014 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.
