NTSB Factual Report

On November 22, 2002, approximately 0900 central standard time, a WSK PZL Mielec M18A single-engine agricultural airplane, was substantially damaged following a forced landing after experiencing a partial loss of engine power near Votaw, Texas. The airplane was registered to and operated by Wakefield Aircraft LLC, of Cooperstown, North Dakota. The commercial pilot, sole occupant of the airplane, was not injured. Visual meteorological conditions prevailed for the 14 CFR Part 137 aerial application flight, and a flight plan was not filed. The airplane departed a private grass airstrip at Wildwood Resort, Texas, at 0845.

According to the Pilot/Operator Accident Report (NTSB Form 6120.1/2), the pilot reported that after making one pass across the field he pulled up to make a "turn-around" when the engine went to idle power. The pilot stated that he dumped the remaining fertilizer and attempted to turn toward a highway to land, but "I did not have enough airspeed. I opted to land straight ahead in a field of small pine trees." The airplane impacted trees and came to rest in an upright position. There was no postimpact fire, and the pilot was not injured. The pilot also reported that approximately 30 minutes prior to departure he conducted a preflight check of the airplane.

The pilot reported that subtantial damage to both wing spars was a result of impact damage with the pine trees. Both horizontal stabilizers were damaged, all propeller blades exhibited bending and twisting deformation, and the propeller spinner was damaged.

On January 10, 2003, Turbines Inc., of Terre Haute, Indiana, disassembled and inspected the airplane's engine, PT6A-65B PCE 32351. The examination failed to reveal any anomalies which would have precluded normal operation of the engine.

NTSB Probable Cause

A loss of engine power for undertermined reasons. Contributing factors included the unsuitable terrain for the forced landing and the lack of airspeed.