On June 9, 1985, a Grumman G-164 (registration N363Y) was involved in an aviation accident near Biggs, CA. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.
Pilot reports engine quit shortly after liftoff during aerial application flight; forced landing in wheat field ends with collision with drainage ditch, substantial damage. Post-accident inspection reveals empty fuel tank.
Accident Narrative
The pilot was loading the aircraft with spray mixture for an intended aerial application flight. During this process, he checked the fuel quantity gauge and believed the indicated fuel level was sufficient for one additional sortie. Shortly after liftoff, the engine ceased operation. The pilot executed a forced landing into a wheat field. After touching down, the aircraft rolled approximately 360 feet before striking a drainage ditch, resulting in substantial damage to the aircraft.
Post-Accident Examination
An inspection of the aircraft after the accident found the fuel tank to be empty. In his written report to the National Transportation Safety Board, the pilot stated that he believed the fuel gauge had stuck, providing a false indication of the fuel quantity. The pilot's preflight decision to take off was based on this gauge reading.