NTSB Factual Report

On July 2, 1993, at about 0730 eastern daylight time, a Piper PA- 25-235, N8659L, collided with the ground during maneuvering flight near Bainbridge, Georgia. The airplane was operated by Howell Crop Dusting Service under visual flight rules and 14 CFR Part 91. A flight plan was not filed for the instructional flight. The airline transport pilot was fatally injured, while the airplane was substantially damaged. Origination of the flight was Bainbridge, Georgia, at about 0725 on the same day.

A certificated flight instructor was observing the aerial application practice flight from the ground. He reported that the was called into the practice field via radio. After making an aerial survey around the perimeter of the practice spray field, the airplane entered a left turn, then began to descend in a 45 degree nose and left wing down attitude. It disappeared from view behind trees in the same attitude. The wreckage was located a short time later in the field toward which it had descended.

The inspector who examined the wreckage stated that all of the major components were accounted for at the accident site. His report (attached) states that a piece of wood and fabric was found in a hole, about eight inches long, located about 60 feet from a crater "...that was apparently created by the engine [ ] upon contact with the ground..." He also reported that "The aircraft was perfectly aligned on a 90 degree angle with the holes created by the engine and the wing tip." The inspector indicated that there was continuity of the flight controls.

According to the instructor, while the pilot was preparing for the accident flight, he stated that his daughter and her husband had a fight. The pilot had not heard from his daughter in three days. He appeared to be concerned about her, the instructor stated, and asked if he was focused on the flight. The pilot responded that he was fine.

The inspector provided a blank Pilot/Operator Aircraft Accident Report, NTST Form 6120.1/2 to the operator, and requested that he return the completed form to this office. The report was not received.

NTSB Probable Cause

THE PILOT'S FAILURE TO MAINTAIN ADEQUATE CLEARANCE FROM THE GROUND.