Casualties unknown

Aircraft Noses Over During Landing in Pasture After Vibration Issue (N6637Q)

Opp, AL, US

On August 6, 1982, a Grumman G164B (registration N6637Q) operated by Robert Dirk Merrill was involved in an aviation accident near Opp, AL. 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 2026-07-04Data APIEditorial standards

A pilot conducting agricultural spraying experienced worsening vibrations in the left flying wires and elected to land in a pasture. During rollout, the aircraft went over a terrace, bounced, brakes locked, and nosed over.

Incident Summary

A pilot reported an accident during an agricultural spraying flight. The pilot experienced vibrations in the left flying wires and chose to land in a nearby pasture to inspect the aircraft. During the landing rollout, the aircraft went over a terrace while the pilot was applying heavy braking. The aircraft bounced slightly, the brakes locked, and the aircraft nosed over.

Pilot Report

According to the pilot, vibrations occurred in the left flying wires while spraying. The pilot had experienced similar vibrations before, but this time they seemed worse. In response, the pilot elected to land in a pasture to examine the aircraft.

Sequence of Events

During the landing rollout, the aircraft went over a terrace. The pilot stated that he was applying heavy braking action at the time. The aircraft bounced slightly, and the brakes locked. Subsequently, the aircraft nosed over. No further details were provided by the pilot regarding the outcome of the landing or the condition of the aircraft.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 6 Aug 1982 Grumman G164B accident near Opp, AL?

A pilot conducting agricultural spraying experienced worsening vibrations in the left flying wires and elected to land in a pasture. During rollout, the aircraft went over a terrace, bounced, brakes locked, and nosed over.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 6 Aug 1982 involved a Grumman G164B, registration N6637Q, operated by Robert Dirk Merrill, at Opp, AL.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20020917X02804. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.