Airplane Entered A Climbing Right Bank Turn, Collided With A Power Transmission Wire, And Descended Into Tree

Location: Vidalia, LA Accident Number: CEN24FA021
Date & Time: October 24, 2023, 09:15 Local Registration: N5180W
Aircraft: Air Tractor Inc AT-502B Injuries: 1 Fatal
Flight Conducted Under: Part 137: Agricultural

On October 24, 2023, about 0915 central daylight time, a Air Tractor AT-502B airplane, N5180W, was substantially damaged when it was involved in an accident near Vidalia, Louisiana. The pilot was fatally injured. The airplane was operated as a Title 14 Code of Federal Regulations Part 137 agricultural flight.

According to information collected by the Concordia County Sheriff’s Office, eyewitnesses observed the airplane apply seed to a nearby field and then flew to the east. The airplane entered a climbing right bank turn, collided with a power transmission wire, and descended into trees. Portions of the airplane were seen to fall from the airplane as it descended. The accident site was located in a wooded area of Vidalia, Louisiana. Fraying of a transmission wire was observed to the east of the main wreckage. Two portions of the left wing’s leading edge were located between the wire strike and the main wreckage. The airplane remained relatively intact and displayed signatures consistent a nose low impact with terrain. All primary flight controls were accounted for at the accident site.

The airplane was retained for further examination.

FMI: www.ntsb.gov