Casualties unknown

Agricultural Aircraft Fails to Arrest Descent During Observation Fly-by (N48534)

Ericson, NE, US

On July 4, 1982, a Grumman G164A (registration N48534) was involved in an aviation accident near Ericson, NE. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.

Sourcesthe U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archivePrimary reportUpdated 2026-06-23Data APIEditorial standards

An agricultural aircraft experienced an inability to arrest descent during a low-level observation pass. The pilot attempted to apply power and jettison the load, but the emergency dump system failed to operate.

What happened

The aircraft was initially moved from the loading area to the designated field intended for treatment operations. Upon arrival at the site, the pilot reduced engine power and initiated an observation fly-by to assess the area.

During this maneuver, the aircraft began to settle toward the ground. The pilot applied additional power in an attempt to arrest the descent, but this action failed to stop the downward trajectory. In response to the developing situation, the pilot attempted to jettison the agricultural load. However, the emergency dump mechanism did not function as intended.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 4 Jul 1982 Grumman G164A accident near Ericson, NE?

An agricultural aircraft experienced an inability to arrest descent during a low-level observation pass. The pilot attempted to apply power and jettison the load, but the emergency dump system failed to operate.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 4 Jul 1982 involved a Grumman G164A, registration N48534, at Ericson, NE.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20020917X03831. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.