Casualties unknown

Aircraft Strikes Pole During Takeoff After Power Loss (N6TF)

Mohave Valley, AZ, US

On August 14, 1983, a Grumman G-164A (registration N6TF) was involved in an aviation accident near Mohave Valley, AZ. 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

During takeoff, a loud bang preceded a substantial loss of power. The pilot decreased pitch to avoid stall, but the left wing struck a pole, leading to loss of control and impact with a cement embankment.

Incident Overview

During the takeoff roll, after reaching approximately 15 feet above ground level, the pilot heard a loud bang and the aircraft shuddered. Immediately thereafter, a substantial loss of power occurred. The pilot stated that he decreased the aircraft's pitch attitude to avoid stalling. Seconds later, the left wing struck a pole. The pilot then lost control, and the aircraft impacted a cement embankment of an irrigation ditch, coming to rest inverted.

Post-Incident Findings

No engine malfunctions were found during post-incident examination. The pole struck by the left wing was 15 feet high and located approximately half a mile from the departure point. The outside air temperature at the time was estimated at 93 degrees Fahrenheit.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 14 Aug 1983 Grumman G-164A accident near Mohave Valley, AZ?

During takeoff, a loud bang preceded a substantial loss of power. The pilot decreased pitch to avoid stall, but the left wing struck a pole, leading to loss of control and impact with a cement embankment.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 14 Aug 1983 involved a Grumman G-164A, registration N6TF, at Mohave Valley, AZ.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001214X44215. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.