NTSB Factual Report

On May 13, 2003, about 0700 central daylight time, a Wsk Pzl Mielec M-18A, N82204, registered to and operated by Canam Aviators Inc., as a Title 14 CFR Part 137 agricultural application flight, crashed shortly after takeoff from a grass strip in Baxterville, Mississippi. Visual meteorological conditions prevailed, and no flight plan was filed. The commercial-rated pilot was not injured, and the airplane incurred substantial damage. The flight was originating at the time of the accident.

The pilot stated that he had completed the first agricultural application flight, and had returned for a second flight. He said that prior to takeoff the second time he on-loaded 90 gallons of fuel and about 5,000 pounds of fertilizer. During the takeoff roll the airplane developed normal power, and upon reaching the midfield the pilot said that the airplane seemed to be moving slowly. He further stated that "at the point of no return" he began dumping the load but the airplane still moved slowly, and upon reaching the end of the runway he forced the airplane to fly and flew it "behind the power curve" for about 300 yards, with it never gaining enough airspeed or lift to support flight. He said the airplane then "torque turned" and lost all altitude, impacting trees and incurred damage. Prior to the accident there were no mechanical failures or malfunctions to the airplane or any of its systems.

NTSB Probable Cause

The pilot's decision to continue the takeoff at a low airspeed which resulted in a stall, an uncontrolled descent, and an impact with terrain.