| Crash location | 38.932778°N, 121.496666°W |
| Nearest city | Nicolaus, CA
38.903230°N, 121.577738°W 4.8 miles away |
| Tail number | N5128N |
|---|---|
| Accident date | 19 May 2018 |
| Aircraft type | Air Tractor Inc At 402 |
| Additional details: | None |
The pilot reported that, during an aerial application flight, he observed a power transmission wire with no obstructions underneath. He added that he turned around to enter the spray field under the wire, where he observed one wire sagging lower than the other wires. While flying under the power transmission wire, he encountered turbulence, and decided to lower the nose to prevent being pushed into the wire. The tail went up and struck the power transmission wire.
The airplane sustained substantial damage to the vertical stabilizer and rudder.
The pilot reported that there were no preaccident mechanical failures or malfunctions with the airplane that would have precluded normal operation.
The pilot reported in the NTSB 6120.1 Form that the wind was calm.
The pilot’s failure to maintain adequate clearance from a power transmission wire.