NTSB Factual Report

On March 20, 1995, at 1855 central standard time, an Air Tractor AT-301, N5237S, registered to Bringham Flying Service, Inc., of Meade, Kansas, and operated by a commercial rated pilot, impacted a pole, and the terrain, while maneuvering during the aerial application of a herbicide, ten miles north of Meade, Kansas. The airplane was destroyed. The pilot sustained fatal injuries. The local CFR Part 137 flight was operating in visual meteorological conditions. No flight plan was on file. The flight originated from Meade, Kansas, time unknown.

An eyewitness stated that he had observed the accident airplane conducting the aerial application to the south of his position. His attention was directed to some work he was doing when he heard a noise and realized that the airplane had impacted an electrical power pole. He stated that he then watched as the airplane impacted the terrain.

Portions of the right wing, right wing tip, and right aileron were found co-located with the top of the utility pole across the road from the pole and in the direction of travel of the accident airplane.

A wreckage diagram was prepared by an FAA inspector and is attached to this report.

An examination of the accident site revealed sequential horizontal indentations in the terrain at the initial terrain impact point consistent with the proportion and location of the propeller blades. Inspection of the engine failed to reveal any pre-impact anomalies.

Post mortem examination of the pilot found no pre existent pathology. The autopsy was conducted at the Southwest Medical Center, Liberal, Kansas, on March 21, 1995.

Toxicological examination of post-accident specimens from the pilot detected 38.600 (ug/ml, ug/g) salicylate in the urine. Salicylate is a by-product of aspirin

NTSB Probable Cause

the pilot's not obtaining/maintaining clearance with the utility pole. A factor was the utility pole.