NTSB Factual Report

On August 4, 2001, about 0545 Pacific daylight time, a Weatherly 620B single engine agricultural airplane, N90191, collided with power lines while spraying alfalfa fields near Winnemucca, Nevada. The airplane was registered to and operated by Morris Ag Air & Sons, Somerton, Arizona, under the provisions of 14 CFR Part 137 agricultural operations. The commercial pilot, who was the sole occupant, was not injured. The airplane was substantially damaged. Dawn visual meteorological conditions prevailed and a company flight plan was filed. The local flight originated about 0530, from a private airstrip near Winnemucca.

According to the pilot's written statement, he was entering the field to be treated toward the south when the main landing gear impacted three top wires paralleling a road that bordered the field. The chemical load then splashed over the cockpit and "made it impossible to see." The airplane impacted the ground, the landing gear separated, and the airplane skidded to an upright stop after 150 yards.

Under the section of the Pilot/Operator Aircraft Accident Report (NTSB Form 6120.1/2) titled "Recommendation (How Could This Accident Have Been Prevented), the pilot wrote, "hold more altitude above the power lines."

NTSB Probable Cause

the pilot's failure to maintain clearance with the wires while he was maneuvering for an aerial application run.