NTSB Factual Report

The airplane nosed over following a loss of engine power during an aerial application swath run. The pilot reported that as his load of fertilizer became lighter during the run he reduced power. The pilot then attempted to add power at which time the engine was unresponsive. He reported the airplane immediately lost altitude, impacted the ground, and nosed over. A post accident inspection of the airplane by an inspector from the Federal Aviation Administration, Belleville, Michigan, Flight Standards District Office failed to reveal any mechanical failure/malfunction which would have resulted in the loss of engine power.

NTSB Probable Cause

A loss of engine power for undetermined reasons. A factor associated with the accident was the low altitude at which the airplane was being operated when the loss of engine power occurred.