Casualties unknown

Aircraft Noses Over After Collision with Ditch Levee Following Takeoff (N48381)

Willows, CA, US

On May 19, 1983, a Grumman G-164A (registration N48381) was involved in an aviation accident near Willows, CA. 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

An aircraft collided with terrain after takeoff after the pilot reported power loss. Attempting to land on a highway, he aborted due to traffic and headed for a plowed field. The main gear caught a ditch levee, causing the aircraft to bounce and nose over. Engine examination found no malfunction cause.

Accident Overview

Shortly after takeoff, the aircraft collided with terrain. The pilot reported noticing signs of a power loss. He attempted to land on a highway but abandoned the approach due to traffic, then headed for a plowed field.

Landing Attempt and Sequence

Without time to jettison his load, the pilot attempted to land in the plowed field. The aircraft did not clear a ditch levee, which caught the main landing gear. The aircraft bounced into the field and nosed over.

Post-Accident Examination

Following the accident, the engine was examined. No cause for the reported power loss or any malfunction could be found.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 19 May 1983 Grumman G-164A accident near Willows, CA?

An aircraft collided with terrain after takeoff after the pilot reported power loss. Attempting to land on a highway, he aborted due to traffic and headed for a plowed field. The main gear caught a ditch levee, causing the aircraft to bounce and nose over. Engine examination found no malfunction cause.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 19 May 1983 involved a Grumman G-164A, registration N48381, at Willows, CA.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001214X43055. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.