TA25 Fire SEAT Accident Fatality 2008

A state forestry representative contacted the tanker operator with two AT-802 Single Engine Air Tankers to request support for the TA25 fire. Initially, the pilot, Gert H. "Jerry" Marais, rejected the assignment, citing high winds, but accepted an assignment to a different fire 55 nautical miles away. While enroute to this fire, dispatch again requested a drop on the TA25 fire, and the pilot agreed to fly to the area and check conditions. After a dry run, the drop location was moved. Marais performed the drop and afterward his aircraft entered a stall and collided with terrain. Marais received fatal injuries in the accident.