AO-2025-002Serious IncidentFinal Report
Agricultural aircraft power loss — Air Tractor AT-502B
| Date | 14 January 2025 |
| Location | Near Dalby, QLD |
| Aircraft | VH-AGA |
| Type | Air Tractor AT-502B |
| Source | Australian Transport Safety Bureau ↗ |
Summary
An Air Tractor AT-502B engaged in aerial application operations experienced an abrupt loss of engine torque at low altitude during a spray run. The pilot executed a forced landing in a paddock, sustaining minor aircraft damage to the undercarriage. No injuries. Post-incident inspection revealed a fractured turbine inlet temperature thermocouple had caused fuel control unit malfunction.
Investigation Findings (4)
- 01Fractured TIT thermocouple harness caused FCU to default to over-lean fuel schedule.
- 02Aircraft was 20 hours beyond recommended thermocouple harness inspection interval.
- 03Pilot successfully landed in rough terrain without injury.
- 04ATSB recommends operator ensure harness inspection schedules are strictly observed.
Aircraft Involved
This report is based on publicly available ATSB/CASA data and may not reflect the complete investigation findings. Refer to the official ATSB website for authoritative reports.