NTSB Factual Report

On June 15, 2004, approximately 1430 central daylight time, a Cessna 188B single-engine agricultural airplane, N21650, was substantially damaged after colliding with a utility pole and power lines while maneuvering near Rush Springs, Oklahoma. The commercial pilot, sole occupant of the airplane, received minor injuries. Visual meteorological conditions prevailed, and a flight plan was not filed for the 14 Code of Federal Regulations Part 137 aerial application flight. The local flight originated from a private airstrip, near Rush Springs, Oklahoma, at an unknown time.

The 4,180-hour pilot reported on the Pilot/Operator Aircraft Accident Report (NTSB Form 6120.1/2), that he departed the grass airstrip with 65 gallons of water and grazon (chemical) on board. He entered the field from the south to spray on the west side of the field, and over trees. He descended into the field and immediately impacted a utility pole and two power lines that were aligned east and west. The airplane was able to continue to fly to the private airstrip and land.

A Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) inspector, who responded to the accident site, reported that the empennage of the airplane was twisted. A utility pole was broken and laying in a field near the accident site.

NTSB Probable Cause

The pilot's failure to maintain clearance with a utility pole and power lines while maneuvering during an aerial application.